This is my first blog outside of being a requirement for school, so please, be nice.
I originally came up with this Top Ten list for my Advanced Business Writing class that I am taking this semester. I initially thought this would be an easy task, a total “no-brainer”. But as I started to list the communication items that I thought were important, I realized that there are many workplace guidelines that go into communicating effectively with coworkers.
The list compiled below is a starter list. The items are not listed in any particular order of importance. This list can be utilized by anyone from the intern up to the CEO.
1. Treat everyone fairly. This extends to coworkers (regardless of hierarchy), internal, and external customers. You never know if the person sitting next to you will be your boss one day, so you should strive to remain cordial and fair, even if they may not give you the same treatment.
2. Honesty. This simple word goes a long way with building relationships, especially with customers.
3. Confidentiality. No one ever wants to hear their dirty laundry whispered back to them. Confidentiality is especially important if you are dealing internally with sensitive issues such as workplace harassment or if you are dealing externally with a customer or vendor regarding proprietary information.
4. Emphasize key information. Whether you are verbally discussing your topic or providing it in written form, get to the point. Too many words can risk your audience missing your main point all together.
5. Use clear and concise language. Occasionally, misunderstandings happen in the workplace. Misunderstandings due to communication can decrease if you use words your audience can grasp. Keep the $5 words on your Word-a-day dictionary.
6. Confirm facts before passing them along as truth. As tempting as it is to be a part of the grapevine, make sure that the information you are hearing really is the truth. There is a fine line between gossip and real industry news and this is where you can increase your credibility by researching the topic before making a jaw-dropping newsbreak that may be incorrect.
7. Give credit where credit is due. Everyone likes a pat on the back whether they will admit it or not. If a coworker or customer has helped you with a task, thank them. A simple thank you will let that person know that you acknowledge them and their efforts. This will also show that you are a team player and are willing to reap the benefits with everyone and not try to claim the glory all for yourself.
8. Steer clear of plagiarism. Even if you do it by accident, it is still wrong. If you are going to site other people’s work within your presentation, make a note of where you received your information.
9. Avoid conflicts of interest. Sometimes the lines of conflicts of interest are dim and gray. Try your best to be cognitive of these situations.
10. Make yourself available. Everyone is busy. If you make the time to have a quick conversation with someone, it can save both of you time and money if the situation is resolved immediately. Miscommunication happens when questions aren't asked or answered. Confirmation conversations are always beneficial.
