How to Improve Communication in the Workplace
Two ways awareness of communication styles can improve communication in the workplace are:
- Becoming aware of them. Teach all employees about the different communication styles. When managers and co-workers know that someone has a passive or aggressive communication style, they can learn how to respond positively
- Using this awareness to change them. Most people don’t know that they have a communication style or what it means to interoffice communication.
According to this model, the Passive, Aggressive, and Passive-Aggressive styles are negative communication styles. Only Assertive ensures an honest, free exchange of ideas, respects all members of the team and makes everyone a winner. (An alternative model breaks the 4 types of communication styles into Analytical, Intuitive, Functional, and Personal. While none are considered inherently better than the other, understanding these workplace communication styles also improves understanding.)
While it would be ideal if everyone in the business was an assertive communicator, that’s probably not likely. Not everybody is a naturally assertive communicator. It depends on personality and upbringing.
You probably can’t completely change your or someone else's style, but if you are aware of what is your communication style, you can get closer to an assertive communication style with the will to change and practice.
Becoming an Assertive Communicator
To become a more assertive communicator, first practice the traits of the assertive communication style above. Remember, it’s as much about respecting your thoughts and feelings as those of others.
Here are some more tips for becoming more assertive:
- Pay attention to your feelings and preferences. Don’t say, “I don’t care,” even about unimportant matters.
- Make “I” statements
- Give your opinion.
- Tell yourself that your ideas are as valid as anyone else’s.
- Find an assertive role model.
- Practice taking criticism without getting emotional or passive.
- Learn to say “no.”
- Maintain friendly eye contact and body language.
- Be sensitive to the feelings of others.
- Accept responsibility for your mistakes.
While you practice becoming more assertive, be careful not to drift into aggressive, passive, or passive-aggressive behavior or communication.
Be patient. You likely can’t change yourself or your workforce overnight, but the change is worth the effort.