Communicating well in the workplace may be easier said than done. That said, it’s one of the most important tools for success and job satisfaction. Whether you’re a new hire or you’ve held your position for some time, refining your communication skills is always a good choice.
Behavioral Health Jobs offers tips on this topic as well as many other areas important to job seekers and employees. Moreover, if you’re seeking career opportunities in behavioral health, check out our job postings. We’re also available at [Direct] or online and look forward to helping you find opportunities in your area.
Tips for Communicating with Coworkers
Depending on your field, you may spend more time communicating with coworkers than anyone else. This can be especially true if you work in an environment that depends on peer review or shared decision-making processes. Here are a few tips for communicating respectfully and assertively with coworkers to maximize workplace success:
- Use active listening: If your coworker is explaining something to you or sharing vital information, consider using active listening techniques. This means you reflect back to them what they’ve just said and ask if you got it right. While this technique may feel artificial at first, it is a great way to ensure information is transmitted fully and accurately.
- Respect coworkers’ time: Unless you’ve got a truly urgent question, consider waiting for the best time to ask your coworkers for help or answers. For example, if you’re likely to accumulate more than one question, you could batch them into a single email or conversation to streamline things for them and reduce distraction.
- Observe “right speech”: This term, borrowed from Buddhism, refers to communication that strives to create benefit and do no harm. Avoid gossip and slander at all costs. It can be tempting to speak poorly about a coworker behind their back, especially if their behavior has harmed you. Nonetheless, the moral high ground generally is the better course since it prevents negative cascades and creates a basis for constructive communication.
- Ask process questions: So far as possible, learn about your coworkers’ job duties. Understanding what deadlines and quality controls they must meet regularly can increase your empathy and respect. This, in turn, can help you provide them with the best support and know how to request their support in ways that are both respectful and workable.
Communication issues with superiors, however, are much more nuanced and can be complex to navigate. You must remain professional when dealing with communication issues you may have with your boss.
Tips for Communicating with Superiors
Many of the same skills, especially active listening, apply to conversations with bosses as well as coworkers. That said, here are a few more unique points to keep in mind when you’re working to improve relations with a superior:
- Strive for great accountability: Build trust with your boss by communicating regularly and clearly about your work and delivering on expectations. If you need help, ask for it early in the process rather than later so your manager has a chance to adapt. Share the results of projects in a timely manner. The goal here is to be reliable, not perfect. Be honest, clear, and consistent in your communications.
- Practice professionalism: This tip is especially important during difficult times. Here, consider getting your boss involved first. For example, if you have a grievance about a work process or coworker, you could let your boss know you intend to bring this up in a group meeting before actually doing so. This gives them the chance to address your concern or prepare in advance. Another critical aspect of professionalism is self-regulation. If you’re upset, give yourself a chance to cool down before addressing concerns with your boss.
- Be proactive about your growth: Especially if you’re a new hire, you may have a lot to learn. Oftentimes, requesting concrete mentorship is the best way to get the insight you need. Similarly, if there’s a new project or initiative you’re interested in, let your boss know you’d like to get involved. You could get the chance to build skills or networks that will help you down the road.
Find more tips and advice for improving communication in the workplace on the Behavioral Health Jobs website.
Find Resources and Jobs Near You Through Behavioral Health Jobs
Are you looking for a new job in behavioral health or striving to grow as an employee in your current position? Rest assured that the caring team at Behavioral Health Jobs is here to help. We regularly publish resources vital to employees and job seekers in the field. Check out our postings boards for opportunities in your area, call [Direct], or reach out online for more assistance.
