Keys to Effective Office Communication
Building and maintaining strong relationships on the job can be a challenge. These tips are intended to help you make wise decisions when communicating with your co-workers.
1. Avoid written communication when your emotions are involved. Talk to the person face-to-face.
2. Use written communication (e.g., e-mail) for conveying factual information or for asking questions.
3. When you receive a communication that triggers an emotional response give yourself plenty of time before you respond to the person.
4. Writing down your immediate thoughts and feelings can help you diffuse your emotions and help you to respond in a more rational, caring and constructive fashion.
5. Fight the temptation to immediately involve others in situations that make you hurt, angry or upset. When you do have a need to talk with someone, go to your supervisor first. If he or she is unavailable, call a friend or family member outside of work for a listening ear.
6. Communicate important details in writing and avoid hallway communication.
7. When involved in meetings, state your purpose at the beginning and stay on track. Always follow your meetings up with minutes or at least a brief summary of what was discussed and/or agreed upon.
8. Avoid blurting – the tendency to share thoughts and ideas “off the top of your head” or during a time that was not previously scheduled.
9. Always clarify for others what you have heard them say.
10. When you sense someone is bothered or upset with you don’t ignore it, check-it-out.
