How to Communicate with Co-Workers

Communication is a key business skill. It’s important to learn how to effectively communicate with co-workers. Feedback, asking for help, clarifying expectations, and making small talk are all forms of communication required in the workplace.

HOW TO COMMUNICATE

To have productive meetings and conversations, we must understand and utilize different types of communication. Each type provides you with a unique opportunity to communicate better with your co-workers. According to Professor Willkomm at Drexel University, there are 5 main types of communication: verbal, nonverbal, written, listening, and visual.

5 TYPES OF COMMUNICATION

Most people have heard of verbal, nonverbal and written communication, but listening and visual communication can be just as effective. The various types of communication can be used individually or in conjunction with one another to improve workplace interactions.

Verbal

Verbal communication is speaking to someone face-to-face, over the phone, or through video-conferencing like Zoom or FaceTime. Face-to-face conversations allow you to see the other person’s nonverbal cues and provides you with more context on the situation. Verbal communication can be casual in nature or occur in a formal setting like a conference or board meeting.

Nonverbal

Nonverbal communication includes facial expressions, body language, gestures, and eye contact. Watch your co-workers nonverbal cues such as sighing, eye rolling or head nodding while you engage face-to-face. Your co-workers body language, gestures and expressions will speak volumes about how they truly feel.

Written

Written communication like emails, social media posts, or a written contract enables you to chose your words carefully. Additionally, written communication provides documentation that can be referenced at a later time. Always proof read your communication to ensure there are no errors and that your message is clear.

Listening

Active listening enables you to hear and understand the wants, needs and concerns of the other party. You cannot find solutions if you do not understand the problem from their point of view. Remove distractions while listening. Refrain from reading emails, answering your phone or replying to text messages. Show your co-worker you are fully present for this conversation.

Visual

Visual communication occurs through television, social media videos, and images. We are bombarded daily with visual messages. Instagram images and stories, Facebook pictures and TV advertisements are all visual communications that grab our attention daily.

Mix and Match

All 5 methods will help you better communicate with your co-workers in a variety of ways. Choose the communication type that best fits your situation. You can mix and match the 5 types of communication and tailor them to meet you and your co-workers needs.

Effective communication can diffuse tense workplace situations and clear up misunderstandings. Additionally, clear communication can decrease frustrations by providing clarity on deadlines, goals and urgency. All 5 types of communication, coupled with the 8 tips below, will enable you to clearly communicate with any co-worker.

If you have a difficult situation or problem with a co-worker, use these 8 tips to help reduce workplace tensions. Notice that the tips utilize the 5 types of communication!

HERE ARE 8 TIPS FOR COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR CO-WORKERS:

1. Speak in person and privately.  Face-to-face communication allows you to gather valuable verbal and nonverbal information that is missed in email and text. 
2. Listen. Stop talking and listen to what your co-worker is saying. Keep an open mind while listening to their point of view. Don’t assume. Don’t interrupt. Just listen. You can’t find a comprise or a solution if you do not clearly understand the problem.
3. Clarify. Clarify what the co-worker said by asking questions. Thoughtful questions will let them know you heard them and want to better understand their point of view.
4. Nonverbal Cues. Watch for nonverbal cues such as tone, volume, gestures, and eye contact. Use those cues to help you determine what is important to the other person.
5. Look at Social Media. Pay attention to their social media comments and posts to better understand the situation and their position on the matter. 
6. Be calm and professional. Stay calm. Do not be mean or attack them personally. Maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
7. Seek resolution. Look for solutions to turn the situation into a win-win for both of you. 
8. Thank them.  Thank your co-worker for taking the time to meet with you and look for a mutal resolution. Let them know you value and respect their time.

Strong communication skills are critical in the workplace. Good interpersonal skills can help diffuse tense situations and solve problems. Use the 5 types of communication and 8 tips to improve how you interact with your co-workers.