Tuesday's Tips

Communicating Effectively in the Workplace

1) Communicate in person as opposed to electronically whenever possible. I try to avoid emailing, instant messaging, etc. when the conversation consists of more than three correspondences and/or questions. Once a conversation reaches a point where there are multiple questions being asked, I walk away from my computer and continue the conversation in person. The sad part is, most of the time that person that I'm communicating with is merely steps away. I've noticed this a lot in the corporate sector. Electronic communication is taking away from good old-fashioned face-to-face dialogue.

2) Mind Your Own Business- This tip is self-explanatory. There's nothing worse than the office gossip. If it doesn't directly concern you, if your job is not in jeopardy, leave it alone.....

3) Proofread- Before submitting any written documentation (emails, letters, memos, etc.) make sure you proof your work. I never submit anything in writing without allowing someone else to look over it as well. BTW- I have a undergraduate & graduate degrees in Communications & Professional & Technical Writing. You're never too good or smart to be corrected

4) Greet the people you work with- Saying good morning upon your arrival and goodbye upon your departure is just the right thing to do. You don't have to carry on a full-fledged conversation (unless you have that type of relationship). Being nice goes a long way.

5) Smile when you speak- I received the nicest compliment from an older gentleman in the grocery store recently. I was shopping and didn't even realize I had a smile on my face. He looked at me and said, "It's so nice to see someone smiling. You just don't see that anymore!" You never know who's looking at you and who may need to see that smile, especially at work.

Until next time... Thank you for stopping by