How better communication can boost productivity by 30%

If, as a business owner, you had the chance to increase your productivity by one-third, how would you do it? Enhanced productivity is an elusive goal that many business owners strive for. Interestingly, we often forget about communication as a means to achieve this.

Here are six communication tips that can boost your productivity.

1. Clarify email content

Spend an extra few minutes editing your email to be concise. A clear email can increase productivity by 30%. This reduces the likelihood of further questions, slowing your project down. A clear email further ensures that instructions are completed to expectation, reducing the overall time spent on the project.

Being able to decode the preferred language of your counterpart and writing your email accordingly can give you the instant and important connection and clarity you want.

2. Communicate clear goals

Share actionable tasks and project goals that can reasonably be completed. Delegating tasks and giving clear actions and expectations ensures each employee understands their role on a project. This means misunderstandings and conflict are reduced.

Remember to acknowledge your staff on a job well done. Some will prefer this publicly, whereas others are more private. Whatever the preference of your team, showing your appreciation for their hard work will ensure your employees are motivated and happy.

3. Optimise the flow of information

A clear communications plan, outlining who disseminates messages and how they are shared, will assist to avoid or reduce incorrect information being circulated. Reducing the possibility of misunderstanding through poorly informed employees reduces the flaring up of conflict and drama and the spreading of false information.

4. Collaboration and cooperation

Collaboration is an easy way to communicate and can bring a team together. As the saying goes, two heads are better than one! Encouraging cooperation between teams can break down barriers and create a supportive environment. Teams that are supportive of one another are generally more communicative, striving for the same business goals.

5. Incorporate team-building activities on a regular basis

Team bonding experiences can be an easy-going way for employees to share ideas. Fostering an open and safe environment is key for a successful team. This encourages a more communicative team and keeps them engaged. Highly engaged teams are more productive, as they communicate freely and share ideas without fear.

Remember that these team building activities should occur on a regular basis, not just once a year. Activities can be as simple as regular team lunches or even Friday after-work drinks. This enables colleagues to share problems and ideas, moving projects forward.  

6. Increased communication can positively affect employee retention rates

Highly engaged employees who feel valued within their organisation are more likely to stay. This means employers spend less time recruiting and their staff are not distracted by bringing new staff up to speed on the current project. When recruiting, it is important to assess each applicant, not just as technical fit but also with the right personality to fit your team. Someone who fits with the culture of your business will ultimately settle into the role faster, compared to someone who holds different values.  

These tips show how important clear communication is to individual employees and within your workplace. Putting emphasis on a safe, inclusive and open communication culture will enhance your team’s overall performance.

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