1.6 Communication in the workplace
Organisations today are influenced by many factors including that of constant change. Some examples of organisational change might include:
Downsizing
Downsizing can cause employees to feel insecure, fearful and uncertain. Good communication between employees and employers is essential to build trust and reduce uncertainty and to minimise the negative effects of downsizing on morale and motivation
Changing organisational structures
Different structures may cause changes to the flow of communication and the power structures within the organisation
Technology
Changes to technology can make communication more efficient, for example, mass e-mails to employees. However these can also create information overload (see the diagram below).
Figure 1.3 Information overload in the modern business environment. Information may get funnelled in, but there is a limit to how much any individual can process. Adapted from Lahiff, J . & Penrose, J . 1997 , Business Communication: Strategies and Skills , 5th edn , Prentice Hall , New Jersey .
Given the many changes to organisations today, the need for competent, effective and efficient communication is more essential than ever before. Employees concerned, for example, at the loss of employment through a policy of downsizing need reassurance and information about their security if they are to perform at their most efficient. Communication competence is the ability to establish personal control over the environment (Kaye 1994). A competent communicator communicates appropriately by knowing what to say, how to say it and when to say it. They have good basic communication skills such as listening skills and speaking skills and they demonstrate a belief in the abilities of staff and like being with people.
Activity 1f
1. Read the section 'Communication within the workplace' on pages 18-21 of Dwyer (2005).
2. Can you identify a competent and effective leader with good communication skills? Describe him/her - what makes him/her competent/effective?
3. Answer Discussion and Group Work Question 4 on page 27 of Dwyer (2005).
This chapter introduced the concept of communication and the importance of communication in human interactions. In order to be the most effective we can be in the workplace it is essential to observe and explore the communication of those around us and to analyse our own communication skills.
Summary activities
1. Set up a table with the headings listed below. List 10 workplace communication scenarios (eg. performance appraisal interview, unit meeting). Analyse the communication skills involved in the scenarios.
2. Note with an 'S' or a 'W' whether you are strong or weak in these skill areas. This provides you with an opportunity for reflective learning.
- Workplace Scenario
- Skills
- Strengths / Weaknesses
3. Read through Reading 1.3. Summarise the four different perspectives on communication.
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