Communication at work.

Introduction to ECBM Communications

  • Presenter: Úna Hassett

Agenda

  • Introductions

  • Classroom learning

  • Group exercises

Lesson Objectives

  • Clarify communication in the workplace

  • Identify communication components and types

  • Recognize internal and external communication platforms

  • Understand benefits and risks of workplace communications

  • Distinguish formal/informal and individual/team contexts

  • Learn from experience on how team communications impact work outcomes

  • Engage in fun activities

Workplace Communication Overview

  • Definition: Means by which employees exchange information and ideas.

  • Types of Workplace Communication:

    • Team meetings

    • One-to-one meetings

    • Cross-functional collaboration

    • Non-verbal communication

    • Other forms

Components of Communication

  • Key Parts:

    • Sender

    • Message

    • Media

    • Receiver

    • Noise

    • Feedback

  • Good Communication Keys:

    • Clarity

    • Problem-solving

    • Two-way exchange

Types of Communication

  • Forms:

    • Verbal

    • Non-verbal

    • Written

    • Visual

  • Examples Include:

    • Formal reports

    • Research findings

    • Announcements

    • Feedback

    • Company updates

Communication Platforms

  • Mediums Used:

    • Email

    • Phone

    • Shared electronic platforms (e.g. Microsoft Teams)

    • Social media

    • Intranet pages

    • Presentations

Benefits of Good Communication

  • Better collaboration and relationships

  • Increased employee engagement and retention

  • Reduced conflict

  • Enhanced productivity

  • Improved decision-making

Risks of Poor Communication

  • Potential Issues:

    • Rumours and misunderstandings

    • Development of false narratives

    • Waste of effort and inefficiency

    • Loss of productivity and morale

Barriers to Communication

  • Examples of Barriers:

    • Language and cultural diversity

    • Gender/neurodiversity differences

    • Poor listening skills

    • Emotional disconnects

Effective Communication Practices

  • Need to remove barriers:

    • Noise and distractions

    • Competing messages

    • Filters and channel breakdowns

Workplace Communication Types

  • Key Contexts:

    • Business to Business communications

    • Business to Employees

    • Interpersonal communications

    • Team dynamics

Case Study: Acme Electric Company

  • Scenario: Company failed to win contracts despite having the best product due to lack of focus in communication.

    • Proposal was overly technical without emphasizing test results and savings.

Interpersonal Skills

  • Need to identify with others regardless of background.

Communication Style Tips

  • Speak to the appropriate person

  • Employ collaboration skills, body language, and tone

  • Know your audience

  • Active listening is crucial

Discussion Points

  • Assess communication within teams

  • Explore management's approach to employee communications.

  • Gather employee feedback on communication effectiveness.

How to Enhance Team Communication

  • Characteristics of effective teams:

    • Clear roles and responsibilities

    • Meaningful work

    • Dependability

  • Concept of Psychological Safety

Five Steps to Psychological Safety

  1. Value each team member's voice.

  2. Admit and learn from mistakes as a leader.

  3. Actively solicit feedback from the team.

  4. Encourage learning from failures.

  5. Reinforce the team's purpose.

Assessment of Psychological Safety

  • Consider key statements to gauge perceptions of safety and support within a team.

Conclusion

  • Final Questions: Open for discussion.

  • Thank attendees for participation.