Established, since 1997, leading UK based training provider.
Celebrating 25 years in business! CPD Member - The CPD Certification Service ilm Recognised Provider

Communication Skills In Business

Communication Skills in Business

Communication Skills in Business

“Good feedback is clear, kind and tied to the goal; that mix drives change faster than talent alone.” - Chris Farmer, lead trainer, Corporate Coach Group

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.

Communication - Clear Communication : Communication Skills in Business

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.

Definition: feedback

In business communication, feedback is a communication process that 1) reports how a person’s recent actions match an agreed goal, 2) arrives soon after the action, 3) states clear, specific facts, and 4) guides future action by reinforcing or correcting behaviour.

Show CG4D Definition
Context: Business communication
Genus: communication process
Differentia:
  • reports how recent actions match an agreed goal
  • arrives soon after the action
  • states clear, specific facts
  • guides future action by reinforcing or correcting behaviour

Article Summary

In business, every message counts, so give feedback that helps; link it to the goal, state facts, suggest fixes, avoid blame, and add true praise. This simple mix turns errors into learning, lifts mood and pushes results upward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions that frequently get asked about this topic during our training sessions.


Thought of something that's not been answered? Ask Us Today!

Did You Know: Key Statistics

Gallup’s 2023 State of the Global Workplace report shows staff who get useful feedback each week are 3.2 times more likely to feel engaged at work. Microsoft’s 2024 Work Trend Index found 69% of workers say they would work harder if their manager simply thanked them for good work.

About the Author: Chris Farmer

Chris

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.

Blogs by Email

Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!

Further Reading in Communication - Clear Communication

  • What is a good communication style?
    Learn how a good communication style - relaxed, clear, credible, persuasive and positive - wins trust and action. Apply simple tips to improve every talk.
    Read Article >
  • What are the Factors of Effective Communication?
    Learn the four factors of effective communication: clear thought, specific words, empathetic listening and positive intent. Improve workplace results today.
    Read Article >
  • How to Politely Say 'No' to Your Boss
    Learn how to say no to boss requests without harm. Use clear reasons, positive replies and set boundaries to avoid work overload and keep good relations.
    Read Article >
  • Twelve Ways to Improve Your Communication Skills
    Learn 12 easy tips to sharpen communication skills: shape focused words, fit style to your audience, use confident body language and voice, and drive results.
    Read Article >
  • Learn to Spot Logical Lies
    Learn how to spot five common logical fallacies, ask for proof, avoid bias and make sound choices. Sharpen critical thinking with simple tips you can use today.
    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

17 September
Gloucester (M5 J11)
£475 +VAT
30 September
London - Central
£475 +VAT
27 October
Online - Teams
£475 +VAT
30 October
London - Central
£475 +VAT
More dates and locations available
Save £50 on this course

Next Open Course Running tomorrow in Gloucester (M5 J11), places available Book Now >