How to Improve Productivity by Focusing on Communication

All too often, the famous saying ‘the right hand doesn’t know what the left hand is doing’ is so true in the workplace. Lack of communication can kill a business way faster than you think.

It’s hard to think of a workplace in any industry that doesn’t require good communication skills. In fact, some of the most successful companies in the world rely on a culture of open communication.

The reason behind this is simple - communication makes people work better together, which, in turn, boosts productivity.

What’s a bit difficult at times is understanding how to emphasise communication. The following tips might help you with this:

Tip #1. Support Feedback:

A big part of an open communication culture is feedback, which has to go both ways.

It comes from the top levels of management and indicates who’s doing great or underperforming.

But it’s equally important that leaders accept criticism from employees, too. Because in some cases, those who work in specific departments may have more knowledge than those at the top.

A bit of back and forth and open criticism makes people feel appreciated and they strive to work harder as a result.

At the same time, others can finally know where they stand in terms of performance. Without feedback, no one knows if they should change something in their approach.

Tip #2. Focus on Transparency:

It’s never a good idea to blow smoke just to carry a conversation.

For a business to run smoothly, everyone has to be on the same page. People need to understand and adhere to the same core values. And they all have to chase the same goals.

That’s why transparency and honesty are some of the most efficient tools for workplace communication.

Can the truth sometimes hurt? Sure, but that doesn’t mean people aren’t entitled to it.

The clearer the message, the easier it is for people to know what they have to do.

Honest feedback can also help motivate people to do better. Leaders being honest and taking ownership of mistakes can boost morale and inspire others.

Tip #3. Use Proper Communication Channels:

When it comes to communication, it’s impossible to rely only on office memos, the occasional meetings, and social gatherings. People need more opportunities to engage with one another.

Investing in a platform dedicated to business communication can prove invaluable, especially when you have remote teams. It can tear down time zone barriers and bring together on-site and remote co-workers.

There’s a good reason why the stock prices of Zoom and Slack went up dramatically since the early part of 2020. After all, more and more small businesses are seeing the value of offering their people a dedicated conversational platform with tons of social and business value.

Tip #4. Put an Emphasis on Teamwork:

Some departments run mostly independent of each other. But every so often, they have to collaborate to help grow the business faster.

When there’s an open communication culture, everyone knows where the other’s standing. People can not only become inspired by other’s successes but also learn from others’ mistakes.

And, most importantly, they can work together towards the same common goals.

Do It Right!