Harnessing Two-Way Communication

This virtual world that we live in has a major pitfall — relationships are harder to form as we’ve adjusted to working from home. Those coffee breaks and chatting by the water cooler were important because those moments allowed employees to get to know one another and learn the nuances of each person’s communication styles. While we have been maintaining our new normal, we are tired and communication can break down easily. Check in with yourself and bring awareness to how you’re interacting in the following ways:

Be Honest and Clear

One of the pitfalls about team communication is that people often hide information from each other because they are worried about the consequences. Whether it’s managers trying to sugar coat a problem within the company or employees not mentioning how hard they are struggling with an assignment. When you try to hide facts or information managers and employees alike will lose trust in you. Be upfront if you have to deliver bad news or let someone know what’s going on.

Tips:

• Remain honest, even if it is a negative aspect
• Speak clearly and don’t hide the fact behind sugar coated words
• Ensure the other person is clear about what they hear
• See if they have any questions

Don’t Make Assumptions

A common problem in communication is assuming that the other person understands what we are communicating or assuming that the employees will not have any trouble with their work.

Instead of assuming, ask “What do you understand the assignment entails? ” or “What questions do you have with respect to what I just explained?”

Ask for employees to follow up on any information they receive, especially if they have questions or concerns. Periodically check on each employee’s productivity and ask if they are having any difficulties or need another problem addressed.

Build Trust

On a virtual team, it is important to remain open with your team members and keep them in the immediate loop of information. When the employees feel included, they learn to trust you and will look to you when they have questions.

Virtual teams especially can have additional problems with trust when they are not always in each other’s company. They can be unsure about what is being said or if they are doing as well as they should. What might building trust virtually look like for you and your team? Jot down a few words and keep them beside your screen so they can remind you in the moment.

As a manager, it is important to show your trust in your employees first. Show them that you trust them to complete their work and trust them with crucial information, such as potential job reassignments or even closures. When the employees feel as though you trust them, they can in turn learn to trust you. They will instill their trust in you and confide in you.

“To effectively communicate, we must all realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others” — Anthony Robbins