How to Encourage Communication Between Employees

One of the biggest challenges for organizations of all sizes is developing effective communication between employees. As Internet and other technology-based communication usurp the role of personal interaction in the workplace, it can be more difficult to manage information than ever before. In many companies, the burden of effective communication in the workplace falls, at least in part, on the human resources department. There are some things you can implement from HR that will help improve communication between employees throughout the entire enterprise.

Human resources provides one link between employees and leadership. An HR organization should pay attention to ensure all staff members have access to appropriate information; according to a survey cited by Anne Fisher in a recent CNN Money article, many companies are falling down hard in this area. The subject of the survey was employees who don't sit at a desk. This includes delivery drivers, field technicians, cooks, sales staff, and others. Three out of four employees surveyed didn't feel that they were receiving enough information about policies, goals, or changes.

Some issues with communication between employees and management stem from the role email plays in disseminating information in the workplace. HR can champion staff who don't work with computers regularly by ensuring policies are in place to publish information via other methods or provide company Internet portals or standalone computer stations where employees can check mail.

Although email provides instant, convenient interaction between numerous individuals, it can also be an issue with effective communication in the workplace. Many individuals, even in executive leadership roles, don't fully understand how to use email. Providing training regarding email systems including how to use CC and BCC lines, how to avoid continuous email trees, and how to communicate appropriately in writing might alleviate misunderstandings between employees. HR organizations should always sponsor policies that promote appropriate communication between employees by prohibiting emails with obscene comments, bullying, or gossip.

In addition to email, organizations should sharpen face-to-face communication skills, use of instant messages and texts, phone skills, and even the ability to understand basic body language. Although human resources staff cannot be responsible for all communication between employees, you can set an example for other departments and promote effective training. You can connect with over a million human resources experts in the Nexxt Human Resources community to get more tips and share your own insights.

The importance of good communication should be shown from the top down; this means that if leadership doesn't take the time to communicate effectively, staff members are unlikely to do so. Human resources staff should work with leadership at all levels to develop effective communication between employees. Without leadership backing, things like email training, focus groups, workshops, and communication tips are likely to fall flat throughout the enterprise.

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