Communication Etiquette - American Society of Employers - Linda Olejniczak

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Communication Etiquette

communicationFour generations at work, numerous mediums to use, and new technology to master – does your organization have a need for a class on communication etiquette? 

Organizations can start by determining guidelines that will works best in your culture and workforce. Is your culture formal or casual? Tech savvy or still needs training? Pick the correct mediums for the job and culture – email, phone, TEAMS, Zoom, Social Media, or in-person when possible.  Improve emotional intelligence, build engagement, and become better communicators using these tips:

1.       Focus –Put your phone on do not disturb, turn off notifications on your laptop, turn your video setting from “everyone” to “who is talking”.  Give your task undivided attention. 

2.       Listen – Listening is one of the most underrated tools at work. Listen to what someone is saying instead of thinking about what you want to say. Ask for clarification or feedback.

3.       Timing is everything – Use your out of office or status symbol in TEAMS or a similar system.  Block out your calendar for those times you are on deadline.  It will show that you are not available to communicate.

4.       Be Present – For in-person/virtual communication stay on track.  Everyone’s time is valuable. State the goals and results you want to achieve.  Create an agenda, send out documents ahead of time, or have them ready to share.

5.       Digital Drama – For text-based communication be sure to read the message and respond with even a simple thank you. This lets your coworkers know you received their message.  Your communications guidelines should state that if no reply is needed, to put “NRN” in the subject line to eliminate the reply step.

If your business does not have a communication policy, it is wise to establish some guidelines to help employees understand how to communicate effectively. Providing introductory training on how to get the most out of your organization’s communication tools will help employees to utilize all the features and realize productivity benefits.

Workplace miscommunication comes with a cost in terms of lawsuits, low morale, loss of respect, misunderstandings, and poor customer service. A communication strategy could result in greater productivity, and higher end-user satisfaction.

 

Additional ASE Resources
McLean & Company – ASE members can visit the McLean and Company site for communications strategy tools and research.  Search for Craft an Internal Communications Strategy or Establish a Communication and Collaboration System Strategy.  The McLean & Company site can be accessed via the ASE Member Dashboard.

Win Win Communication Skills This ASE course helps participants strengthen communication skills by identifying techniques that help them communicate with greater impact and clarity. This course will provide opportunities to identify the purposes of communication and what can impede or enhance one’s message.  The next course will be held on September 29th in Troy.  Register here.

A virtual course will be held November 12th.  For the virtual course, register here.

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