Essential to the smooth functioning and culture of companies, communication is also strategic for building trust and strengthening an organization's reputation. While this may seem obvious, it's not always easy. Technological transformations, behavioral changes, new work formats, and multiple forms of interaction require even greater discipline and method to practice effective communication in the corporate environment.
With consistency and methodology, however, it is possible to communicate well. In an article in Kellogg Insight, a magazine from the Kellogg School of Management, senior editor Abraham Kim brings together five strategies based on research and academic discussions from experts and professors* to help improve workplace interaction. The tips are primarily aimed at leaders, but are valid for all employees (who are also responsible for the reputation of the companies they work for).
The five strategies
1. Organize teams to share information efficiently
Among the communication strategies studied by a group of researchers, the most effective is that which occurs when teams are organized into two types: core teams and peripheral teams. According to the study, core teams share virtually all information with each other. Peripheral teams, on the other hand, communicate within their own team and involve core teams when necessary. This way, core teams remain fully informed about the most relevant issues, while the others can focus on their specific work.
2. Embrace vulnerability to build trust
In a professional context, it's important to convey trust. However, trust can also represent vulnerability. For example, in a collaborative project, you expect your colleague to complete their part on time and with high quality, but if they don't, there will be real costs for you as well. The other option is to express a lack of trust through micromanagement. In other words, trust and vulnerability come with risks, and the key is to balance them.
3. Find a balance between in-person and digital communication
The new work formats after COVID-19, with the reduction of in-person interactions, can affect communication and pose challenges for companies regarding collaboration, engagement, and organizational culture. And, since it's not uncommon for employees to decide what work to do remotely, companies and leaders need to be aware of the issue and define when in-person collaboration is most necessary.
4. Be clear and convincing when talking about work
Leaders and employees must seize every opportunity to make a good impression, stand out, and become a role model when talking about their work or career. It's common for people to over- or under-describe their work. The key is to be concise and engaging at the same time.
5. Know when to be silent to make room for others
It used to be more common, but how often does the senior leader in the room dominate the meeting, leaving no room for other participants? With this type of attitude, leaders fail to recognize and value talent and even end up discouraging attendees from speaking up. Therefore, the tip for leaders is to listen.
* The article cites research and insights from Kellogg School professors Niko Matouschek, Michael Powell, Bryony Reich, Eli J. Finkel, Jillian Chown, Craig Wortmann, Sanjay Khosla.