Why Communication is Key
Communication is one of the basic functions of management in any organization, and its importance can hardly be overemphasized. It is a process of transmitting information, ideas, thoughts, opinions and plans between various parts of an organization.
It is not possible to have a relationship without communication. However, good and effective communication is required not only for good relationships but also for successful business practices.
Manager / employee relations
Effective communication of information and decisions is an essential component for management-employee relations. Employees cannot work effectively unless the manager communicates effectively to them what must be done. Managers must also be aware of how to effectively communicate different types of directives and what results can be expected from that communication. Most management problems arise due to a lack of effective communication. So, when communicating with employees, be clear, consistent and approachable and chances of misunderstanding and misrepresentation will be minimized.
Employee relations
It is through communication that employees submit work reports, comments, grievances and suggestions to those above them. A company must have an effective and speedy communication policy and procedure to avoid delays, misunderstandings, confusion or distortions of facts and to maintain harmony among all employees and departments.
Motivation and employee morale
Communication is a basic tool for motivation, which can improve the morale of the employees in an organization. Inappropriate or faulty communication among employees or between a manager and his or her subordinates is a major cause of conflict and low morale at work. Managers should not only clarify what is to be done but also provide feedback on how well employees are doing in accomplishing their goals or what can be done to increase performance.
Increased productivity
Effective communication helps maintain good human relations within the organization by encouraging ideas or suggestions from employees or workers and implementing them whenever possible. This is also a way to increase production at a low cost.
Communication may be oral or written, but in both instances, these forms of communication are reflections of one person’s thinking. For that reason, the communicator needs to take extra precautions to ensure that their message is being communicated clearly. Don’t forget that it is difficult to communicate tone in written communication, so one must be even more careful to communicate clearly in writing.
