Communicating in the Workplace Bayside Discussion
Posted May 6th, 2013
As technology advances, we now have more ways than ever to communicate with each other.
But while it has become easier to communicate, it’s also become easier to mis-communicate.
Yet, despite all these advances in communication technology, according to Stephen Paskoff, a human resources specialist, these new tools have done little to help us understand each other better. In fact, the plethora of communication modes may be adding to the problem. This becomes something that human resources specialists need to keep in mind, given the fact that workplace harassment and other communication problems and conflicts usually end up in their area.
The fact is that when we write something, we have a particular meaning in mind, but the message often is interpreted in a different way by the recipient. When this happens, there can be misunderstandings and conflict.
Part of the problem stems from our relationships with others, Paskoff says. When we get a message from someone we like, we interpret the message in a positive way. We are generally willing to accept statements at face value, and assume a sincere intent. But when the message comes from someone we have a more ambiguous or contentious relationship with, we automatically adopt a certain stance toward the communication, being more guarded, more questioning of meaning and motives.
Take for example, Paskoff says, the message, “Great seeing you. That was some presentation you made. I couldn’t believe you did that.” Then think about the different ways you would interpret that message coming from a friend or an enemy, Paskoff says.
Texting, because the messages are so brief, can sometimes create even more misunderstandings, even though they obviously are more convenient. And misunderstandings are likely to escalate, with globalization increasingly bringing together people of diverse ages, nationalities, cultures and idioms.
What’s the solution? One thing to do when composing a message is to put yourself in the place of the reader, to think about how the message will appear to him or her given the context and your relationship. For more complex communications, it might be a good idea to use the telephone, or even a face-to-face meeting to make sure there are no misunderstandings.
If you’re a resident of the San Francisco Bay Area and are looking for work in the IT sector, send your resume to Bayside Solutions. We look forward to hearing from you.
