There are many factors that you must deal with when you are the head of a business team, whether you are a growth manager or a regional one, especially when it comes to issues that may be causing dissent or disharmony among your team members. It’s also worthwhile looking into integrated communications platform. One of the most common problems that might result in misunderstandings is miscommunication. When the lines of communication break down, it can result in arguments, work stoppage, and hurt feelings. If you want to improve the way each person on your team communicates, there are several strategies you can use to accomplish this.
1.    Do Not Let Small Issues Grow Over Time
While it is common for small conflicts to arise and then blow over, some can linger and then start to grow over time without you being aware of it. When this happens, resentment and anger between employees can grow and then come to a head before you become aware of it. Once the situation explodes into a shouting match or other conflict, it can be difficult to resolve at that point.
To avoid large conflicts, encourage an open door policy with your employees so that you can be aware of issues that could grow into a potentially disruptive situation. Listen to their grievances with an open mind and then bring together the parties involved soon after, in a separate meeting, to clear the air.
2.    Depend Less on Technology
Technology is constantly changing the business landscape, from inner-office messaging systems to wearable devices that help employees track productivity and promote workplace safety. However, while office emails and digital memos can help streamline some processes, allowing it to replace human interaction may negatively affect the way you communicate with your team and how they interact with each other. The tone of someone’s voice is difficult to interpret in an email or text, and if the recipient misunderstands it, this could cause them to be offended or angry.
To keep technology from taking over, encourage your employees to be social during breaks and lunches and set a good example by doing the same. Make at least one break a technology-free zone so that your team members talk to each other instead of staring at their smartphones. This can foster feelings of camaraderie and create a work environment where everyone feels comfortable.
3.    Invest in Communication Training
Whether you offer your team members sensitivity training or pursue a USC MCM in order to improve your own communication skills, communication education and training classes may improve interpersonal office relations and increase productivity. Team-building exercises that focus on improved communication skills could also help your team members see which areas need to be improved. For example, if one department constantly seems to be left out of the loop, such exercises might go a long way in pinpointing why this happens and shed light on effective solutions.
4.    Rein in Your Emotions Â
If you are unhappy with an employee over a presentation that was put together without much thought or over repeated absences, it can be easy to let your anger and frustration get the best of you. However, it is difficult to communicate when you let your emotions take over. In order to communicate more effectively with your employees, you should come from a place of reason instead. Then, offer to work with them and offer solutions, not insults, to resolve whatever issues are at hand.
5.    Become a Better Listener
Listening to what your team members have to say can be a vital component of improved communication at the workplace. Listen to hear, not for cues that it is your turn to speak. Mention at least one important point the speaker made when you reply and make this a habit during each conversation to become a better listener.
Improving communication in the workplace can improve employee morale and productivity. While it may take time to implement these strategies, you may find it more than worth the time for the good of your employees and your company.
