Communication Skills In Business

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Communication Skills in Business

In business, you need to use language effectively in order to give proper feedback.

Look at the diagram below and you will see why feedback is an important concept in professional and business communication.

Feedback is the communication of information that relates to a person's recent actions to the goal.

Feedback tells a person whether their recent actions are taking them closer towards their goals, or NOT.

Your goal is to communicate proper feedback.

Feedback comes in three forms:

1. Constructive criticism.
2. Destructive criticism.
3. Appreciation and praise.

1. Constructive criticism

At times, we all need to receive constructive criticism - Since nobody's perfect!

Therefore, managers should know how to communicate criticism in a constructive manner.

We need managers to communicate any criticism in a constructive manner which will inspire and will give confidence to the receiver.

Failure to give constructive criticism is a common communication error.

Some managers give destructive criticism.

2. Destructive criticism

This is what we do NOT want. It is easy for negative feedback to deteriorate into destructive criticism.

Destructive criticism leads to bad feelings, broken relationships and a reduction in performance.

One of your main aims should be to note the difference between constructive and destructive criticism (feedback) and to perfect your skills in communicating constructively.

3. Positive feedback: Appreciation, praise and thanks

Managers need to give proper appreciation, praise and thanks.

Always remember the power of a few kind words.

Failure to communicate appreciation and praise is a common communication error.

Remember, the lack of appreciation is sometimes the cause of conflict.

One of your main aims in life should be to harness the power of a few kind words.

About the Author: Chris Farmer

Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years’ experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.

Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.

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Further Reading in Communication - Clear Communication

• How Language Causes Confusion
  Ambiguity in business can be damaging both for your reputation and your finances. To avoid potential confusion when communicating with colleagues and customers, take a look at these five ways where ambiguous language should be avoided.
  Read Article >
• The Most Important Question
  Many people speak in vague terms, or they don’t make themselves clear, so don't be afraid to ask them for clarification. It is dangerous to guess their meaning; ask the all important question before jumping to conclusions.
  Read Article >
• Communication Skills: Clear Thinking
  One of the best ways to improve the clarity of your thinking is to get into the habit of differentiating between pairs of similar but opposing concepts.
  Read Article >
• Better Work Relationships
  Developing your ability to create and maintain excellent relationships will help you enjoy more success in every aspect of your life.
  Read Article >
• The Six Barriers of Successful Communication
  In order to be successful, we need to be able to communicate well with others. There are many barriers that can cause breakdowns in communication, which you need to be aware of and deal with effectively.
  Read Article >

Looking for Communication Skills Training?

If you're looking to develop your Clear Communication Skills, you may find this Communication Skills Training Course beneficial:

Open Training Course Pricing and Availability

Next Open Course Starts in 18 days, London - Central, places available Book Now >