When words fail

WHEN words fail, the workplace becomes a comedy of errors or a disaster.

Effective communication is crucial in every work environment. Effective communication doesn’t mean the most extensive vocabulary or perfect English. The simpler, the better if it’s business. However, some workplaces require literary genius or creative thinking, depending on the industry.

To lessen miscommunication, I have a few ideas I learned from experience.

Avoid jargon. Using jargon is not that effective in a big workplace. You can use it sparingly. Using jargon is beneficial, though, when using it among peers in the same profession or department. It would be best if you can explain things in layman’s terms. It’s effective in getting your message across.

Be an active listener. There’s a big difference between listening and actively listening. You can be physically present but mentally absent.

I remember it was during my second job. I was talking to my boss over the phone. He was talking lengthily, and I kept saying yes, ok, and other positive replies. When he hung up, I had to call him and ask, what was it again? I think he knew me well that he just said, “I knew it.”

There’s also what you call an accidental active listener or its slang term, “accidental Maritess.” It happened to me during my first job.

The facsimile machine was at the back of my boss’ desk. I was talking to someone from Treasury and was up to my ears in the discussion. My boss was also on another call. After hanging up, I asked him a question related to his call. He quickly replied, “Abi ko ba, you were busy with your call?” I retorted, “Yes, my other ear was busy, but the other ear was not.”

It’s what you call an accidental active listener. The other ear had a mind of its own.

Clarify and ask questions. Do not presume. Had I not bravely clarified and asked my boss about his instructions, it would have been a series of unfortunate events.

Empathy. One should be empathetic towards a friend or a colleague who shares her thoughts or what’s troubling her. One can only show empathy when one actively listens.

It takes courage to open up in the workplace. So when someone approaches you, give your full attention.

Constructive feedback system. It is essential to have this in the workplace. It boosts morale, and it also provides the person with knowledge on how to improve and grow. Both parties should make it constructive to create a positive result. And it should always be objective and not subjective.

So there you go. Effective communication is a continuous learning process. It’s not a fixed science. You are both the student and the teacher.