I have been teaching the HRCI Certification Preparation Course for over 18 years now and in almost every class, I stress the importance of communications. Communication in the workplace is critical in all aspects of the business.
Employees need to communicate with their peers to ensure a healthy culture. A happy environment leads to job satisfaction, low turnover and a productive, profitable business. People want to look forward to coming to work when they are getting along with their co-workers and are enjoying the time they spend at work.
Management must communicate to employees. Nothing is worse that the rumor mill. The way to stop rumors is to be open and honest with employees. Granted there are times when the situation may not allow full disclosure to what may be going on behind the scenes. However, the more open management can be the better for the culture. Rumors do more damage than honesty. In most cases, employees will rally around the team when things may be difficult.
I talk about communication in the workplace, but it is just as important to have the same open communication in our personal lives. Family, friends, relationships, social groups, church groups are all healthier with open communication.
It’s time to take a look at your communication skills. Are they where they need to be?
Barbara Flynn, MSHR, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
