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Effective Communication in the Workplace

Source: https://pixabay.com/vectors/social-media-connections-networking-3846597/ is in the Public Domain at Pixabay.com. Retrieved 07.05.2022.

Effective workplace communication helps maintain the quality of working relationships and positively affects employees' well-being. This article discusses the benefits of practicing effective communication in the workplace and provides strategies for workers and organizational leaders to improve communication effectiveness.

Workplace Communication Matters

Effective workplace communication benefits employees' job satisfaction, organizational productivity, and customer service (Adu-Oppong & Agyin-Birikorang, 2014). We summarized Bosworth's (2016) and Adu-Oppong and Agyin-Birikorang's (2014) works below related to the benefits of practicing effective communication in the workplace.

• Reduces work-related conflicts
• Enhances interpersonal relationships
• Increases workers' performance and supervisors' expectations
• Increases workforce productivity through constructive feedback
• Increases employee engagement and job satisfaction
• Builds organizational loyalty and trust
• Reduces employees' turnover rate
• Facilitates the proper utilization of resources
• Uncovers new employees' talents

Strategies to Improve Communication Effectiveness

Effective communication is a two-way process that requires both sender and receiver efforts. We summarized research works and guidelines for good communication in the workplace proposed by Cheney (2011), Keyton (2011), Tourish (2010), and Lunenburg (2010).

Sender's strategies for communication planning

• Clearly define the idea of your message before sharing it.
• Identify the purpose of the message (obtain information, initiate action, or change another person's attitude)
• Be aware of the physical and emotional environment in which you communicate your message. Consider the tone you want to use, the configuration of the space, and the context.
• Consult with others when you do not feel confident or comfortable communicating your message.
• Be mindful of the primary content of the message.
• Follow-up previous communications to verify the information.
• Communicate on time, avoid postponing hard conversations, and be consistent.
• Be aware that your actions support your messages and be coherent in your verbal and behavioral communication style.
• Be a good listener, even when you are the primary sender.

Receiver's strategies during a conversation

• Show interest and attitude to listen.
• Listen more than talk.
• Pay attention to the talker and the message, avoiding distractions.
• Be patient and allow the talker time to transmit the message.
• Be respectful and avoid interrupting a talker.
• Hold your temper. An angry person takes the wrong meaning from words
• Go easy on argument and criticism.
• Engage in the conversation by asking questions. This attitude helps develop key points and keep a fluid conversation.

Effective communication practices are essential for any successful team and organization. Organizational communication helps to disseminate important information to employees and builds relationships of trust and commitment.

Key points to improve communication in the workplace

• Set clear goals and expectations
• Ask clarifying questions
• Schedule regular one-on-one meetings
• Praise in public, criticize in private
• Assume positive intent
• Repeat important messages
• Raise your words, not your voice
• Hold town hall meetings and cross-functional check-ins.

Adu-Oppong, A. A., & Agyin-Birikorang, E. (2014). Communication in the Workplace: Guidelines for improving effectiveness.  Global journal of commerce & management perspective ,  3 (5), 208–213.

Bosworth, P. (2021, May 19). The power of good communication in the workplace . Leadership Choice. Retrieved May 18, 2022.

Cheney, G. (2011). Organizational communication in an age of globalization: Issues, reflections, practices . Waveland Press.

Keyton, J. (2011). Communication and organizational culture: A key to understanding work experience . Sage.

Tourish, D. (2010). Auditing organizational communication: A handbook of research, theory, and practice . Routledge

Lunenburg, F. C. (2010). Communication: The process, barriers, and improving effectiveness.  Schooling ,  1 (1), 1-10.

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The Importance of Effective Communication in the Workplace

Effective communication > ineffective communication.

Joanna Zambas

Content Manager and Career Expert

Reviewed by Chris Leitch

Communication plays a fundamental role in our daily lives. And yet the  art of communication at work  is somewhat of a mystery to certain people.

But if you fail to communicate effectively, you could end up missing your chance of securing your  dream job , closing a life-changing deal or  advancing in your career .

For some, good communication comes naturally, but for others, it can be hard to articulate their thoughts and feelings in conversation, often leading to conflict and fundamental errors.

So, whether you’re an effective communicator or not, it’s essential to understand the importance of good communication and how it can help you  become more professional at work  to move forward in the working world.

What is effective workplace communication?

Effective communication in the workplace is an integral element of a business’s success; it enhances relationships within the company and with clients, and it increases  employee engagement  and the overall effectiveness of a team.

On the other hand, when teams fail to communicate effectively, the results are detrimental to the business. In fact, research by US firm Gartner shows a whopping 70% of business mistakes are due to poor communication. This statistic proves just how critical communication is to job training and why more emphasis should be put on clear instructions and conversations to prevent mistakes from happening within the workplace.

Types of communication

Communication can be divided into different categories, all of which can be harnessed in different contexts to make collaboration between team members more efficient. These types are:

• Verbal: The ability to speak out loud in a clear, structured and respectful manner is vital in conveying information within a team.
• Written: Written communication is just as important and frequently used in the workplace as verbal communication. It needs to be clear, concise and mindful of the receiver.
• Visual: During presentations , pitches and brainstorming sessions, images can be used to capture and convey ideas. It’s not just designers who can (or should) master it!
• Non-verbal: Non-verbal communication refers to body language , gestures and facial expressions. Team members must pay attention to the signals they might be sending unknowingly!

Why is effective communication important?

To demonstrate just how important good communication is at work, we’ve listed some of the benefits it can have on your professional life:

1. It improves team building

Honest and effective communication can  create a strong team . When staff consult with each other, consider other opinions and discuss their progress, they’ll be more enthused to  collaborate . As a result, the strong unit that they create makes the workplace more enjoyable, and they’ll be eager to perform well so they don’t let their teammates down.

Indeed, communication helps solve employee morale issues by keeping entire teams in the loop, making all team members feel useful within the workplace. This lack of secrecy not only boosts team spirit but also has a positive effect on staff attitudes.

2. It boosts growth

Great communication contributes to the growth of the business, which goes hand in hand with your career. It eliminates uncertainties and speeds up the process of policies to ensure there is a smooth delivery of projects.

Take eCommerce website Zappos, for example: their ethos relies on great communication within the organization and with their clients — something that earned them a spot on  Fortune  magazine’s 2015 list of the  100 best companies to work for .

3. It increases innovation

If employees won’t communicate their thoughts and ideas out of fear of being rejected, then they’re likely to become  stagnant in their career  and only contribute the bare minimum. However, if there’s an open line of communication between supervisors and staff members, they’re encouraged to be more creative and  innovative within the workplace , and they’re likely to put forth new and creative ideas.

In today’s fast-moving workplace, most ideas are likely to be pushed under the carpet due to a lack of communication. As Cisco managing director Alex Goryachev writes on  Forbes : “People listen mostly to respond rather than to understand. However, digitization demands  active listening  to the ecosystem in order to survive and develop collaborative strategies with startups, partners and customers around the world.”

4. It improves productivity

Being able to communicate tactfully and effectively at work can help increase overall productivity , especially for small businesses . Managers can understand their employees’ talents and skills, and will then give clear directions to the people that are best suited for the job, thus increasing the overall turnaround time of any given project.

For example, one coworker may be faster and better at using Excel than others; therefore, through communication, a manager can identify this and task them with managing the spreadsheets. If there was a lack of conversation, meanwhile, the project would suffer, and the entire process would slow down, negatively affecting the goal of the company as a result.

5. It increases efficiency

Poor communication compromises efficiency , as well as the overall quality of work. When instructions aren’t provided clearly, mistakes are bound to happen. On the other hand, clear instructions eliminate the need to clarify and correct any issues.

Think back to a time where you didn’t communicate well with a coworker. It probably resulted in wasted time, effort and resources. So, if you happen to have a manager that doesn’t communicate effectively, make sure you ask the right questions to get the information that you need to successfully complete a project. Over time, they’ll understand what they should be supplying you with so you can start working on your tasks.

6. It increases loyalty

When you have a  good line of communication with management , you’re naturally going to be more loyal to the organization. You’ll feel comfortable discussing any professional or personal issues, and you’ll be more committed to the company.

This free line of communication also builds trust between a manager and an employee, which results in a loyal relationship. A two-way line of respect ensures there’s no micromanagement involved and that an employee is trusted to get on with the job that they were hired to do.

7. It reduces mitigation conflict

Two people in the workplace may feel that they’re communicating well, but because they both have different methods of communication, they’re  misunderstanding each other . Therefore, working with different personalities requires excellent communication skills to limit any conflict in the workplace.

If you’re experiencing conflict at work, it’s important to look beyond the issue at hand and identify the other person’s thought process. You need to consider the communication pattern of the receiver to get a better understanding of what they’re trying to say.

8. It increases employee engagement

Good communication goes far beyond talking; it’s more about connecting and engaging with others. When  teams are engaged , they’re more aligned with the company’s goals and generally more motivated to work towards the set targets.

It’s also easier for managers to identify what makes a positive and satisfying working environment, allowing them to work towards achieving a  balanced working life  for their employees.

9. It resolves problems

There’s bound to be characters that clash and opinions that differ within any working environment. And what’s the best way to  solve those problems ? Clear communication!

Effective communication isn’t about who’s right and wrong; it’s about having open, honest and positive discussions to ensure everyone’s needs are met! You’re not always going to see eye to eye with your work nemesis, but if you can find a way to work well with them, you’ll make the environment much more enjoyable for everyone around you!

10. It enhances skills

Managers can identify hidden talents when they communicate clearly with their employees. By doing so, they can tap into these skills and help enhance them, which will contribute to the overall success of the business.

For example, John may be hired as a customer service representative, but through conversation, his manager identifies that he has previous experience in marketing. John is then transferred to marketing and is much better suited to the position. If the lack of communication were there, however, John would have become stagnant later down the line, and the business would have lost great talent.

Signs of ineffective communication

Much like poor leadership practices, ineffective communication can have detrimental effects on company finances and employee morale. More specifically, it can result in:

1. Compromised productivity

Coordinating team members so that company processes run like clockwork requires exceptionally good communication skills. Both written and verbal, that is! You simply can’t be productive as an individual or a department unless you know what you’re meant to be doing and when you need to have completed it by — as well as how it all fits in with the efforts of coworkers or other teams.

2. Poor-quality work

If employees don’t know how to communicate effectively in writing, this can cost them (and their organization) their credibility. Poor email etiquette , badly written “About Us” sections and error-ridden social media posts are not a good look.

Plus, if information doesn’t get passed on right between workers, it will show in other ways: missed deadlines, too many last-minute changes, rushed work, and so on.

3. Wasted time

When colleagues struggle to communicate, information doesn’t get passed on right. If you need someone to complete a task, if you (or they!) are not clear when communicating, you’ll lose time in the back-and-forth.

If this is further exacerbated by a lack of tools in the office, such as project management or contact management software , then more time will go towards looking for things or revising existing work than actually being productive.

4. Bad interpersonal relationships

Communication is one of the core pillars that all healthy relationships rest upon. Take it away, and interpersonal relations suffer.

When team members don’t know how to listen actively, ask or give help, navigate confrontations and set boundaries when they need to, trust goes out the window. This, needless to say, is bad for employee morale and productivity.

5. Higher employee turnover

When an employee is frustrated over receiving inadequate or inaccurate information repeatedly, unfulfilled by their work relationships, and also feeling like they’re wasting their time, what follows is typically their resignation.

According to Gallup , replacing a single employee costs companies one-half to two times the employee's annual salary… And that’s a conservative estimate. Ouch!

Tips to improve communication at work

Miscommunication costs businesses upwards of $12,000 per employee each year. That’s how much significance good communication has! To improve it, try doing the following:

1. Make use of tools

There are countless tools you can use to encourage better communication between your team members. For example, if you don’t already use instant messaging over email where you can, do so to save time. And, if your team isn’t too confident in their written communication skills, get an AI-powered writing assistant to provide instant feedback and recommendations so that they build their skills over time.

2. Sign up for seminars

If miscommunication is causing you and your team to lose precious time and fall out with one another, you might want to consider signing up for a communication skills seminar. That could be in the form of an online course or a series of in-person workshops.

3. Lead by example

As a boss or manager, leading by example can be a great way to motivate your team because it shows that you hold yourself to the same standards as you do everyone else. How can you expect your team members to avoid one-word responses to emails when all you’re sending out to them are hurried “OK”s?

4. Follow up meetings with notes

Whether it’s one-on-one meetings or larger ones, it’s a good idea to follow up what’s been said with meeting minutes. Going over your plan of action both verbally and in writing can eliminate misunderstandings and save you precious time that you would otherwise spend answering questions.

5. Invest in team building

Think of your friends and how well they “get you” even when you’re not necessarily articulating as well as you could. They can simply read your tone and body language and add it to what you’re saying to gain a sense of your experience. Likewise, the more comfortable and familiar team members are with one another, the easier it becomes to understand and be understood.

Key takeaways

Ineffective communication makes it near-impossible for employees to work closely with one another as part of a team. Not only that, but it can also lead to a lack of direction or purpose, which increases employee disengagement and dissatisfaction , thus boosting turnover rates. Whether employees stay at the company and work at decreased efficiency or throw in the towel and find work elsewhere, the result is the same: it wounds the company’s profits and reputation.

Therefore, bosses and managers who hope to retain their best talent and preserve their profits must remember the following:

• Common types of communication in the workplace include verbal and written, with non-verbal also being essential to building and maintaining trust.
• Efficient communication translates into increased efficiency and productivity, as well as improved employee relations . This saves companies thousands each year.
• There are many tools and software that can enhance coordination between team members and help them develop their communication skills in the long term.
• Leading by example is a great way for leaders to inspire their team members to invest in honing their soft skills , including teamwork and communication.

Can you think of any other benefits that come with great communication in the workplace? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section.

Originally published on January 5, 2015. Updated by Electra Michaelidou.

Workplace Relationships

Soft Skills

Communication Skills

Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Effective Communication — Effective Communication: The Key to Building Strong Connections

Effective Communication: The Key to Building Strong Connections

• Categories: Connection Effective Communication

About this sample

Words: 791 |

Published: Sep 12, 2023

Words: 791 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Table of contents

The importance of effective communication, key elements of effective communication, barriers to effective communication, strategies for improving communication, 1. building relationships:, 2. resolving conflicts:, 3. achieving goals:, 4. personal development:, 5. success in the workplace:, 1. clarity:, 2. active listening:, 3. empathy:, 4. nonverbal communication:, 5. respect:, 1. misunderstandings:, 2. lack of active listening:, 3. emotional barriers:, 4. assumptions and stereotypes:, 5. lack of feedback:, 1. practice active listening:, 2. foster empathy:, 3. be mindful of nonverbal cues:, 4. seek feedback:, 5. adapt to your audience: h3>, 6. practice constructive communication:, 7. educate yourself:.

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Understanding The 4 Communication Styles in the Workplace

How to improve yours and navigate others

Sanjana is a health writer and editor. Her work spans various health-related topics, including mental health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness.

Rachel Goldman, PhD FTOS, is a licensed psychologist, clinical assistant professor, speaker, wellness expert specializing in eating behaviors, stress management, and health behavior change.

Hinterhaus Productions / Getty Images

We encounter a ton of different personalities at work. Some are easy to get along with; whereas, others are harder to vibe with. How well we're able to work with people often depends on our workplace communication style.

So, what exactly is a workplace communication style? Your workplace communication style is the manner in which you share ideas, information, and issues in a professional setting. A combination of verbal and nonverbal cues, it affects how you interact, learn, share, and collaborate.

Research shows that effective and appropriate communication is linked to greater productivity, better organizational health, and increased employee satisfaction. How we communicate can also play a huge role in determining our personal and professional growth and success.

Our communication style is based on our unique characteristics, which drive our approach to sharing and exchanging information with others, says Octavia Goredema, a career coach and author of “Prep, Push, Pivot.”

Identifying your communication style will allow you to enhance your interactions with others and play an important role in building your personal brand.

Apart from defining your own communication style, it’s also important to recognize other people’s communication styles. This is crucial because we all have different ways of interacting, processing, and conveying information, says Goredema. If you can recognize the differences, you can use your emotional intelligence to adapt to the needs and preferences of others, she adds.

Keep reading to explore passive, passive-aggressive, aggressive, and assertive workplace communication styles.

Passive Communication Style

These are some of the characteristics of a passive workplace communication style:

• Reluctance to speak up: Someone with a passive workplace communication style may hesitate to express their thoughts, opinions, ideas, and needs. Instead of speaking up, they may wait for others to take the lead.
• Conflict avoidance: Passive communicators often go to great lengths to avoid conflicts or disagreements. They may choose not to give others feedback or address issues directly.
• Difficulty setting boundaries: They may find it difficult to decline requests or express their own limitations. They might agree to tasks or responsibilities they are uncomfortable with because they are unable to say “no.”
• Indirect communication: They may use indirect language or non-verbal cues to convey their thoughts or emotions, which can sometimes cause misunderstandings and confusion.
• Low self-confidence: A passive communication style often stems from a lack of self-confidence. The person may doubt their own abilities, which can prevent them from expressing themselves openly. They may fear rejection , so they may hold back their ideas or opinions.

You may choose to remain passive in situations where you have little interest or involvement. However, in other situations a passive communication style may be ineffective and a more assertive communication style may be required.

What to Do If You’re a Passive Communicator

If you’re a passive communicator, these are some strategies that can help you be more assertive :

• Define your goals: Set specific communication goals for yourself. Whether it's speaking up in meetings, asking for help when needed, or providing honest feedback, having clear objectives can be helpful.
• Practice assertive language: Use clear, concise, and direct language to express your thoughts and ideas. Avoid overly apologetic or overly deferential language that can weaken your message.
• Rehearse what you want to say: If you find it difficult to be spontaneously assertive, it can be helpful to prepare what you want to say in advance. Rehearsing it can boost your confidence and help you feel more in control.
• Set boundaries: Clearly communicate your boundaries to colleagues and supervisors. Learn to politely but firmly say "no" when you genuinely can't take on additional tasks or commitments.
• Remind yourself of your qualifications: If you feel shy or timid, or worry that others won't value your ideas, career coach Krystin Morgan recommends reminding yourself of your credentials and accomplishments. “Remember that you deserve to have a seat at the table and share your opinion.”

How to Interact With a Passive Communicator

These are some strategies that can help you interact with a passive communicator:

• Include them in discussions: If someone rarely speaks up or shares their thoughts, Morgan recommends making space for them to engage in the conversation. “For instance, in a group setting, this could mean asking the person for their thoughts or ideas.”
• Consider alternative forms of communication: Some people feel intimidated by large groups and communicate better one-on-one instead, says Morgan. Others prefer written communication and may be more willing to share their thoughts over email.
• Offer reassurance: Assure the person that their thoughts and opinions are valued and respected. Show appreciation for their ideas and contributions.
• Be approachable: Create a dynamic where the person feels comfortable approaching you. Be friendly, open, and non-judgmental in your interactions.
• Avoid pressuring them: While you want to encourage them to speak up, avoid putting them on the spot or pressuring them to talk.

Aggressive Communication Style

These are some of the characteristics of an aggressive workplace communication style:

• Dominance: People who communicate aggressively tend to try and control conversations and situations. They may interrupt others, raise their voice unnecessarily, or use forceful body language to assert dominance.
• Bluntness: Aggressive communicators may be blunt and direct in their communication, sometimes to the point of being rude or tactless.
• Disregard for boundaries: They may ignore personal or professional boundaries , which can be inappropriate and uncomfortable.
• Resistance to compromise: They may resist compromise and aggressively try to put their point across or ensure things are done their way.
• Personal attacks: This communication style can involve insults, personal attacks, or name-calling. The person may attack someone's character or abilities in an attempt to assert their own superiority . In turn, they may be defensive when questioned or challenged.

Research shows that men who are aggressive communicators are often lauded for vigorously pursuing their goals; whereas, women who are aggressive communicators are regarded more negatively.

What to Do If You’re an Aggressive Communicator

If you’re an aggressive communicator, these are some strategies that can help you be more respectful of others in the workplace:

• Identify your triggers: Identify what triggers your aggressive responses. Understand the underlying emotions or situations that cause you to respond aggressively. Keeping a journal can help you track and manage your triggers and responses.
• Pause before you respond: When you feel the urge to respond aggressively, pause and take a deep breath. This brief moment can help you collect your thoughts and respond more calmly.
• Choose your words carefully: Pay attention to your choice of words. Use respectful language that reflects a willingness to collaborate and engage in a positive discussion. Practicing or role-playing important discussions in advance can help you be more calm and composed in the moment.
• Practice empathy: Put yourself in the other person’s shoes and consider their perspective. This can help you understand their feelings and be more empathetic toward them.
• Apologize and make amends: If you've acted aggressively toward someone in your workplace in the past, acknowledge your behavior and apologize to them.

How to Interact With an Aggressive Communicator

These are some strategies that can help you interact with an aggressive communicator:

• Remain calm: Though it can be difficult in the moment, it's important to stay calm and composed when faced with aggression. Responding with anger or defensiveness can escalate the situation further. Maintain a professional demeanor and avoid engaging in personal attacks.
• Focus on the issue: Separate the aggressive tone from the content of the message. Concentrate on addressing the core issue being discussed, rather than reacting to the aggression. Keep the conversation focused on working together to find solutions.
• State your boundaries: Politely but firmly communicate your boundaries . Let the person know that you expect to be addressed respectfully and will not engage in aggressive exchanges.
• Stay empathetic: Try to understand the underlying reasons for the person’s aggression. They might be experiencing stress, frustration, or pressure that's influencing their communication style.
• Seek support: If the aggression is frequent, inappropriate, or escalates to the point of harassment, seek the support of your manager, HR, or other appropriate channels.

Passive-Aggressive Communication Style

A passive-aggressive communication style combines elements of both passive and aggressive behavior. These are some of the characteristics of this communication style:

• Covert criticism: Passive-aggressive communicators may use sarcasm, backhanded compliments, eye-rolls, or disrespectful gestures to indirectly mock or criticize someone’s ideas or actions.
• Indirect communication: Rather than addressing issues head-on, people who communicate passive-aggressively resort to more subtle, indirect tactics. They use veiled language that leaves room for ambiguity and later gives them an opportunity to deny their words.
• Silent treatment: Rather than communicating clearly, they might give people the silent treatment or withhold important information as a form of expressing displeasure.
• Subtle sabotage: They may subtly engage in actions that undermine other people’s projects or initiatives.
• Involvement of others: Instead of addressing issues directly with the concerned parties, they might complain to colleagues or superiors to garner sympathy or support. They might frame themselves as victims, deflecting responsibility for their passive-aggressive behavior.

A passive-aggressive communication style breeds mistrust and misunderstandings. It can cause tension to build among team members, which can eventually lead to conflict in the team.

What to Do If You’re a Passive-Aggressive Communicator

If you’re a passive-aggressive communicator, these are some strategies that can help you be more direct and assertive in the workplace:

• Reflect on your communication style: Recognize and acknowledge your passive-aggressive tendencies. Understand the negative impact they have on your relationships and team dynamics.
• Work on being more direct: Make an effort to express your thoughts, concerns, and opinions directly and honestly. Work on sharing ideas openly, praise generously, and feedback constructively.
• Be mindful of your tone: Pay attention to your tone and body language . Aim to communicate in a way that is respectful and collaborative.
• Don’t let issues fester: Don't let issues pile up and fester. Address things in a timely manner, while they are still manageable, to prevent resentment and passive-aggressive behavior from setting in.
• Seek constructive outlets: Instead of resorting to passive-aggressive tactics, find constructive ways to express frustration or disagreement with colleagues.

How to Interact With a Passive-Aggressive Communicator

These are some strategies that can help you interact with a passive-aggressive communicator:

• Stay professional: Respond to their behavior calmly and professionally. Avoid reacting with frustration or aggression, as this might give them more ammunition to use against you.
• Focus on the facts: Stay focused on the facts of the situation. Address the actual issue at hand, rather than getting caught up in their passive-aggressive comments or behavior.
• Seek clarifications: If their communication is unclear or ambiguous, ask them to clarify their intentions or concerns. It may be helpful to get things in writing, so there’s no room for misinterpretation.
• Be direct: Encourage open and direct communication. If you sense passive-aggressive behavior , gently encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings more directly. Let them know that you value open and honest communication and that disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated.
• Address the pattern: If you notice a consistent pattern of passive-aggressive behavior, address it politely but firmly. For example, you could say: "I sense some frustration in your tone and I'd like to understand what's causing it. Can we talk about what’s bothering you?" or “If you’re facing any challenges or in disagreement about something, I’m willing to listen and work with you to find a solution.”

Assertive Communication Style

These are some of the characteristics of an assertive workplace communication style:

• Straightforwardness: Assertive communicators express themselves clearly, using straightforward language to convey their thoughts and ideas. They are often direct and to the point, says Morgan. They can say “no” or set boundaries when necessary.
• Confidence: People who communicate assertively speak with conviction, projecting confidence and self-assurance.
• Respect: Assertive people respect others’ opinions, feelings, and autonomy. They acknowledge differing viewpoints and seek common ground.
• Ownership: Assertive individuals take ownership of their feelings and communicate them without blaming others. They use "I" statements to express emotions.
• Expressive body language: They use open and engaged body language while communicating. For instance, they maintain eye contact and use gestures to reinforce their messages.

An assertive communication style fosters a positive, respectful, and collaborative work environment. While it may take some getting used to, working with someone who communicates assertively can be a real positive because you never have to wonder what they mean or where you stand, says Morgan.

What to Do If You’re an Assertive Communicator

If you’re an assertive communicator, these are some strategies that can help you improve your communication skills further:

• Keep an open mind: While being assertive can help you get your point across, it’s also important to be flexible and keep your mind open to other people’s ideas and approaches.
• Be adaptable: Remember that different situations may require different communication styles. It's important to tailor your style to individuals and situations whenever possible, so Morgan recommends being mindful of who you're speaking with and how they prefer to communicate.
• Be patient: Sometimes, assertive communicators can be impatient with people who don’t get directly to the point. Try to cultivate patience and remain calm and composed.
• Offer reassurance: Not everyone will understand your communication style—some people may feel intimidated or feel as though you aren't being "nice" enough, says Morgan. It can be helpful to offer reassurance on occasion so people know you mean well.

How to Interact With an Assertive Communicator

These are some strategies that can help you interact with an assertive communicator:

• Avoid beating around the bush: Assertive communicators tend to prefer to have folks communicate directly back to them, so focus on speaking confidently and concisely to them, says Morgan. Avoid beating around the bush and come to the point succinctly when you’re interacting with them.
• Respect their perspective: Even if you have differing opinions, acknowledge and respect their viewpoint. A healthy exchange of ideas can lead to better understanding.
• Give honest feedback: If the conversation involves feedback, provide it in a clear and straightforward manner, focusing on behaviors and outcomes. They are likely to appreciate constructive, actionable feedback.

What Kind of Communicator Are You?

Our fast and free communication styles quiz can help give you some insight into how you interact with others and what it could mean for your interpersonal relationships, both at work and at home.

How to Improve Your Communication Skills

These are some strategies that can help you improve your workplace communication skills, according to the experts:

• Develop self-awareness: Take some time to self-reflect and become more aware of your communication style at work. Identify your strengths and pay attention to areas that could use improvement. It can also be helpful to ask your colleagues for feedback on your communication style.
• Decide what you want to be known for: Goredema recommends deciding what you want to be known for at work and then considering how your communication style can support that reputation.
• Listen actively to others: Active listening is a strategy that will serve you well, says Goredema. She explains that it involves listening fully to what the other person is saying, without interrupting, making assumptions, or jumping to conclusions based on their words or nonverbal cues. You can show the person that you're engaged and actively listening by nodding, maintaining eye contact, and asking clarifying questions during the conversation.
• Ask open-ended questions: Close-ended questions typically evoke a “yes” or “no” response, whereas open-ended questions can reveal underlying motivations, beliefs, and attitudes that may not be apparent at the outset, says Goredema.
• Adapt to your audience: Tailor your communication style to the preferences and needs of your audience. Adjust your approach depending on whether you're speaking with colleagues, clients, or superiors.
• Learn from your mistakes: If you become aware of a miscommunication, address it promptly and openly. Learn from these situations to avoid similar issues in the future.

de la Torre GG, Ramallo MA, Gonzalez-Torre S, et al. Communication styles and attention performance in primary school children . Behav Sci (Basel) . 2021;11(12):172. doi:10.3390/bs11120172

Hicks JM. Leader communication styles and organizational health . Health Care Manag (Frederick) . 2020;39(4):175-180. doi:10.1097/HCM.0000000000000305

Abed LG, Abed MG, Shackelford TK. Interpersonal communication style and personal and professional growth among Saudi Arabian employees . Int J Environ Res Public Health . 2023;20(2):910. doi:10.3390/ijerph20020910

Maloney ME, Moore P. From aggressive to assertive . Int J Womens Dermatol . 2019;6(1):46-49. doi:10.1016/j.ijwd.2019.09.006

Richard C, Lussier MT, Millette B, Tanoubi I. Healthcare providers and patients: an essay on the importance of professional assertiveness in healthcare today . Med Educ Online . 2023;28(1):2200586. doi:10.1080/10872981.2023.2200586

By Sanjana Gupta Sanjana is a health writer and editor. Her work spans various health-related topics, including mental health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness.

Importance of Communication in the Workplace

Communication is an exceptional tool in every person’s daily life. Nonetheless, it is essential that “both the transfer and the understanding of the meaning” (Robbins & Judge, p.427) are included in this process for fruitful outcomes. We use this tool to contact other people by transmitting and receiving information. We communicate with each other while learning, working, or spending time with family or friends. Respectively, communication is used to find out about a product or service and for purchasing it. Actually, in today’s world of rapid technological progress and the context of a global pandemic, I would prefer to search for information about a product and purchase it using the Internet.

However, I discuss obtaining information about the product and acquiring it in person from a brick-and-mortar store. After arriving at the store and finding a sales assistant, the communication process will occur between us. This process involves several necessary stages: I, as a sender, should create an appropriate message and encode it; the message pass to the sales assistant, who, in turn, should receive that message and decode it (Robbins & Judge). Separated but still essential, the final stage implies the salesman provides me with feedback.

Initially, I have to formulate what I would like to buy and what I want to know about this product. The second step involves encoding and sending the message – verbally asking the seller. The third step is the consultant receiving my information, and the fourth one implies his decoding or understanding of my question’s meaning. However, there is also such notion as “noise” in the communication process, which denotes barriers in communication leading to the lack of clarity of the message (Robbins & Judge).

For avoiding misunderstandings and ambiguities, my thoughts should be logical, correct, and concise. I can make sure that the seller-consultant understood me correctly after receiving his feedback. Thus, the assistant giving me feedback – is the final step of the communication process. Consequently, the salesman and I should repeat this loop as many times as necessary to find out all the required information about the desired product and purchase it.

Robbins, S. P., & Judge, T. A. (2021). Organizational behavior (Updated 18 th ed.). Pearson.

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Essay on Importance Of Effective Communication

Students are often asked to write an essay on Importance Of Effective Communication in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Importance Of Effective Communication

Understanding each other.

When people talk and listen well, they understand each other better. Just like friends sharing secrets, clear talking and careful listening make sure no one gets confused or upset. It’s like playing catch – if you throw and catch well, the game goes on smoothly.

Getting Things Done

Good communication is like a key that opens doors. At school or at home, when you explain what you need clearly, it’s easier for others to help you. It’s like giving clear directions to someone so they can find the way without getting lost.

Building Relationships

Talking and listening to each other is the glue in friendships. When we share our thoughts and feelings, we grow closer. It’s like building a bridge between two islands, making it easier to meet in the middle.

Stopping Arguments

When we talk clearly and listen to what others say, many fights can be avoided. It’s like seeing a stop sign before a crash happens – it keeps everyone safe from misunderstandings and hurt feelings.

250 Words Essay on Importance Of Effective Communication

Why good communication matters, learning together.

In school, if a teacher explains lessons in a way that’s easy to get, students can understand and remember things better. If students ask questions and give answers clearly, everyone learns more. This is why being good at talking and listening can help in getting good grades and knowing more.

Work and Teamwork

At work, if a boss tells workers what to do in a simple, clear way, the job gets done right. If team members talk to each other well, they can work together without getting mixed up. This means the work is better and everyone is happier.

Making Friends

With friends, talking and listening are keys to having fun and helping each other. When we share stories and listen to what others say, friendships grow. If we can’t talk well or don’t listen, misunderstandings happen, and feelings might get hurt.

Solving Problems

When there’s a problem, talking in a calm and clear way can fix things faster. If we listen to others and explain our side without getting mad, most problems can be solved easily.

In short, good communication is a superpower for learning, working, making friends, and solving problems. It’s a skill worth getting better at every day.

500 Words Essay on Importance Of Effective Communication

What is effective communication, why is talking well important.

Imagine you have a great idea during a class project. You share it with your friends, and because you explain it well, they all get excited and want to help. This is one reason why talking well is important. It helps us share our ideas and feelings in a way that others can understand. When we talk well, we make friends, solve problems, and get things done.

Listening is Part of Talking Well

Talking isn’t just about speaking; it’s also about listening. When we listen, we learn what others think and feel. This helps us to know them better and to work together well. Good listeners show they care about what the other person is saying. This makes the other person feel important and happy to talk more.

How Does Talking Well Help at School?

Talking well helps with problems.

Sometimes we have disagreements or problems with others. Effective communication helps us solve these problems. When we talk about what’s bothering us in a calm and clear way, we can find solutions faster. It’s like untangling a knot instead of pulling it tighter.

Talking Well is Important for the Future

As you grow up, you will meet many new people and do different things. You might work on big projects, help others, or lead a group. To do these things well, you need to talk well. People who communicate effectively are often chosen for important tasks and leadership roles because others trust them to share ideas and information clearly.

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The Importance of Effective Communication: The Key to Success

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• Topic: Communication Skills , Effective Communication , Interpersonal Communication

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