How to prioritize two-way communication

By Sharine Sample

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We've all experienced conversations at work where the other person seems uninterested or disengaged. It's frustrating when you realize they aren't listening, and we've likely been guilty of the same behavior at times.

In the workplace, effective two-way communication is essential. Failing to pay attention can lead to missed valuable information necessary for our jobs. More importantly, showing presence in conversations demonstrates respect for our colleagues and their opinions.

Two-way communication thrives when both parties understand each other and the purpose of their discussion. So, how can we achieve this?

• Engage in Active Listening: Listen not just to respond, but to understand. This will allow you to provide thoughtful and relevant replies.
• Give Feedback or Ask Questions: After others finish speaking, seek clarification or provide feedback. Paraphrase their points to confirm your understanding, indicating that you have comprehended their message.
• Make Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with the speaker. Avoid distractions from your phone or laptop, as it can come across as dismissive.
• Don’t Rush: In busy environments, it's easy to be hurried. However, invest a few moments to focus on the conversation. If you are pressed for time, inform the speaker and suggest continuing the discussion later.

After establishing a conducive atmosphere for two-way communication, consider how best to express your own ideas. Here are additional tips for clear communication with colleagues:

Be Clear in Your Wording: Use straightforward and understandable language that accurately conveys your message. Provide examples to illustrate your points.

Remember, Everyone Thinks Differently: Recognize that colleagues have diverse thinking styles and life experiences. Maintain respect for differing opinions and viewpoints, and be courteous while presenting your thoughts and feedback.

See Yourself as Others Do: Before speaking, consider how your audience may perceive your message. You may feel comfortable with close teammates, but remember that your words can be interpreted differently by others. Always aim for a positive reputation and be cautious of potentially harmful statements.

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Remove Emotion: Workplace discussions can evoke emotions. Keep feelings in check, especially negative ones. Avoid raising your voice or using inappropriate language. Staying calm and collected will help convey your message more effectively.

Watch for Nonverbal Cues: Body language often communicates louder than words. Pay attention to the room's vibe to gauge engagement and reactions. Observing nonverbal signals can indicate whether your audience is attentive, indifferent, or upset.

In conclusion, we often concentrate too much on what we plan to say instead of focusing on being effective communicators. To enhance communication, we should prioritize listening over talking. Engaging fully by hearing others can, believe it or not, have a greater impact. Utilizing the strategies above will help you become a more attentive and effective communicator.

Sharine Sample is a Regional Workforce Development Manager at Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina. Learn more about Goodwill’s employment services.