Like many areas in life, good internal communication is crucial to success when it comes to business. Internal communication will ensure that everyone is on the same page and working as a cohesive unit, plus it can also be helpful in terms of creating a positive work environment and boosting morale. It is clear that good communication is vital, but how can you go about improving communication in the workplace? This is an area that many business owners struggle with but there are a few simple steps that can be taken which could have a huge impact on the success of the company and the morale of staff.

1. Open Plan Office

One of the most effective steps to take is to take down any barriers so that you have an open plan office. In addition to making it easier for staff to communicate, this also creates a nicer atmosphere in the office where people do not feel confined and shut away from one another.

Also read: How to Design an Office for Maximizing Employee Happiness

2. Open Door Policy

Following on from this, it is also a good idea to adopt an “open door policy” for your office where employees are encouraged to approach you with any kind of message. In order for communication to be efficient at all levels, it is important that people feel that they can easily speak to the boss which can be hard if you keep a shut door.

3. Lead By Example

It is the responsibility of the business owner to lead the way as people will naturally adopt the style of work that you use. This means that you should make sure that you are communicating effectively at all times by checking in regularly with employees, giving positive feedback and also talking to them about non-work matters. It is healthy for staff to talk socially provided that it does not interfere with work.

4. Tailor Your Approach

When it comes to communicating with individual team members, it is important to realize that everyone is different, and one person may prefer one type of communication. As an example, some people find that face-to-face communication is the best way to converse while other people dread speaking on the phone and will not find this a productive way to communicate.

Also read: Five Practical Ways to Improve Office Communication

5. Keep Morale High

Leading on from this, communication will only be effective if staff feel happy and content at work. This means that you need to identify a few ways to keep staff morale high and this is an ongoing process. This could include company events, positive feedback, celebrating achievements, incentives, progression opportunities, etc.

6. Software & Technology

In addition to face-to-face communication, you will also need to consider ways in which you can improve digital communication particularly in a day and age where many businesses have staff working remotely. Having software systems developed by top software developers can make digital communication quick, easy and effective. This could involve having an intranet system developed which can be used to communicate, onboard new staff and improve digital workflow.

7. Messaging Apps

Leading on from this, it can also be beneficial for teams to use messaging apps to communicate when any kind of collaboration is needed. These can be one-on-one or group chats that allow people to stay in touch while on the move without having to make a phone call.

8. Short Meetings

While meetings can be a good way to communicate, you will find that more often than not it is a meeting which is not required and a disruption to workflow. It is for this reason why you should only hold meetings when they are necessary and keep them as short as possible so that people can get back to work.

Also read: [Infographic] Nine Steps to More Pleasent Meetings

9. Monthly Updates

It is a good idea to craft a monthly update that is emailed to everyone attached to the company so that everyone remains clear on what has been accomplished over the month and what can be expected the following month. This is also a good opportunity to ask employees for feedback so that you can make improvements to the operation.

10. Videos

Video is the most engaging and personal form of media and the easiest way to convey complex messages. You can use company videos to share your vision and build a strong company culture. Videos can also be highly effective for training and introducing new employees to the business.

Use these methods to improve your internal communication, and you should notice a significant improvement in the way in which the company operates. Additionally, improving internal communication can also improve the atmosphere in the workplace and help to keep staff morale high.

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