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Effective communication in the workplace: What it is and why it matters

Communication is fundamental in all aspects of life, yet many people struggle to communicate effectively at work. Because of this, they may miss out on the opportunity to land the job of their dreams, get the promotion they deserve or sign a deal that could change everything. While some people are natural-born communicators, others may struggle to express what they’re thinking and feeling in words – and end up having to deal with the consequences.

In this Pacific Prime UK article, we take a closer look at what effective communication in the workplace is and why it matters.

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What is effective communication at work?

Effective communication at work is integral to a company’s success, which is why many companies invest in teaching effective communication strategies in the workplace – such as through in-house training and team-building activities.

Excellent communication is far more than simply conversing well. It extends to effective email communication, customer-facing communication, written reports, and more. It improves relationships with colleagues and clients, as well as enhances employee engagement and overall team effectiveness.

Conversely, teams that struggle to communicate effectively can negatively impact the business. Disrupted workflows and damaged brand reputation are just some of the serious consequences that business communication failures can have.

Why is communication important in the workplace?

Communication is vital for anything from job training and task instructions to client interactions and in-office conversations. To help you understand just how important it is, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of effective communication in the workplace.

It creates a strong team

Teams that communicate honestly and effectively form a stronger bond. Team members will be more willing to collaborate when they are able to consult with each other, share opinions and talk about their progress. The strong bond that they develop will not only make work more pleasant but also encourage performance since they will want to please their teammates.

Workplace morale issues can be solved through effective communication since all teams within the company know what’s going on, which makes team members feel like they are valued. Open communication doesn’t just boost team spirit but positively impacts employee attitudes as well.

It increases productivity

Productivity is something that is greatly enhanced by effective workplace communication. Managers are able to understand their workforces’ skills and talents. When a task comes up, they can determine who is most suitable for the project and provide clear directions, thereby improving turnaround time.

For instance, one employee may be better at using spreadsheets than others. A manager who learns about this through communication will be able to assign spreadsheet assignments to the person who does them best. Without effective communication, the project would take longer to complete, which could negatively affect company objectives.

It improves efficiency

Lack of communication jeopardises efficiency and work quality. Instructions that are not clear are much more likely to result in mistakes while clear instructions get the ball rolling right away. Most of us have experienced giving or receiving poor directions. It’s likely that time, effort and resources were wasted as a result.

An employee who knows their manager isn’t the best at communicating might be wondering how to improve communication in the workplace. Their best option is to ask questions that will give them all the information they need. Eventually, the manager might realise that they should be providing more information, to begin with.

It promotes innovation

Employees who hold back from expressing their thoughts and ideas because they are scared of rejection are less likely to advance in their careers and more likely to contribute as little as possible. On the other hand, open communication between managers and employees encourages innovation in the workplace since they are more likely to share their ideas.

Due to the fast pace of the modern workplace, many ideas are swept under the rug thanks to poor communication. It’s no surprise that active listening, which involves listening to understand rather than respond, is one of the top tips for effective communication in the workplace.

It builds loyalty

An employee who can communicate with management will naturally be more loyal to the company. They will find it easier to discuss any issues they have and therefore be more committed to the organisation. A good line of communication builds trust between managers and employees, which also builds loyalty. Mutual respect between both parties prevents micromanagement and helps the employee feel trusted to do their job.

Effective communication in the workplace has many other benefits worth mentioning. It can:

  • Improve employee engagement
  • Reduce conflict
  • Lessen unhealthy competition
  • Solve problems
  • Enhance skills
  • Ensure transparency

Communication is an integral part of work, regardless of one’s role or responsibility. Now that you understand the importance of effective communication and the impact it can have at work, perhaps it’s time to prioritise effective communication as part of soft skills training for the workforce.

Get the help of an employee benefits specialist like Pacific Prime UK

Offering communication skills training is just one of many ways that companies can increase employee motivation. In fact, effective employee benefits are the best way to retain and attract top talent. But designing an employee benefits package that’s effective and affordable can be tricky.

As a leading health insurance and employee benefits broker, Pacific Prime UK can help you find the best employee benefits solutions and corporate health insurance plans in the UK. To find out more about designing an employee benefits package or choosing group health insurance in the UK, get in touch with our expert advisors today!

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Senior Copywriter at Pacific Prime UK
Jantra Jacobs is a Senior Copywriter at Pacific Prime with over 10 years of writing and editing experience. She writes and edits a diverse variety of online and offline copy, including sales and marketing materials ranging from articles and advertising copy to reports, guides, RFPs, and more.

Jantra curates and reports on the results of Pacific Prime’s monthly newsletters, as well as manages Pacific Prime’s Deputy Global CEO’s LinkedIn posts. Complemented by her background in business writing, Jantra’s passion for health, insurance, and employee benefits helps her create engaging content - no matter how complex the subject is.

Growing up as a third-culture kid has given her a multicultural perspective that helps her relate to expats and their families while 8 years of working remotely have given her unique insight into hybrid work arrangements and enthusiasm for employee benefits.
Jantra Jacobs