Do you ever feel like one of the most challenging places you have to focus on communication is actually at work? Turns out, it probably is – given the number of communication styles and exercises you typically engage in each day. Whether your job entails a fair amount of negotiation, leadership, presentations – you name it – you’re challenged to step up in more ways than one, and communication is the name of that game. No matter what, when it comes to communicating at work, a thoughtful approach is always the best. Here are a few tips to help you navigate these challenging waters.
4 Top Tips for Communicating at Work
#1. Negotiations. This happens in many forms – whether you actually conduct client negotiations or you’re negotiating a new salary for yourself, it’s tough. Putting your game face on, not letting them see you sweat and knowing the facts of the situation are all in your best interest.
Having clear goals and knowing exactly what you want are essential points along with remaining calm and doing your homework on the situation. If you know all angles of what you’re negotiating, no one will be able to surprise you. Always be prepared to walk away.
#2. Leading your team. For some leadership is a natural progression, while for others it can feel overwhelming and challenging when people are relying on your expertise. But here’s the thing: the best leaders lead from the heart. They’re sincere, they care about the job at hand, they care about their team and they’re ready to mentor and teach whenever necessary.
Communication is the name of the game when it comes to leadership – from both directions – you need to be clear when you’re outlining goals and your team should be able to come to you with questions when they need more guidance. Remember those simple guidelines and you’ll be good to go.
#3. Presenting ideas to executive team members. This may seem intimidating – you want to be seen as knowledgeable and innovative, but at the end of the day – the execs are just people too. It’s all about the way you communicate your ideas that will position you for success. When you’re clear, concise and you get the point across, you’ll be respected and understood.
If you get nervous and talk in circles, you’ll be perceived as unclear and unprepared. Study your subject, know your topic inside and out and be prepared for any question that may come your way. Practice your presentation and shave off the excess and the fluff – get right to the point. You walk in confident, deliver your message and leave with your head held high – you’ll feel good and your execs will be impressed.
#4. Resolving conflict. Disagreements, different ideas, alternative ways of achieving the same goal – it all happens at work and knowing how to effectively deal with that is essential. Sometimes communication in this situation can feel really strained – you certainly don’t want to cross the professional line by getting frustrated, but you also need to get your point across. It happens.
Staying calm and knowing when to walk away will help navigate this tough situation, but also listening and hearing everyone else’s perceptions and solutions will help too. Be open to other ideas and think strategically before you speak – this way you’ll only say the things that are truly important. Choose your words carefully and know that you’re not always going to get your way – and that’s OK.
Do you have challenging situations at work that require pretty tailored communication skills? Got any tips you’d like to share?
