Your colleague is struggling with communication skills. What’s the best way to help them improve?

1 Identify the problem

The first step is to identify the specific communication problem that your colleague is facing. Is it verbal, written, or non-verbal communication? Is it related to listening, speaking, or understanding? Is it affecting their performance, relationships, or safety? You can observe their communication style, ask for feedback from others, or review their reports or messages to find out the root cause of the problem.

3 Suggest resources and tools

The third step is to suggest resources and tools that your colleague can use to improve their communication skills. You can recommend books, podcasts, courses, or online platforms that cover topics such as communication styles, techniques, or strategies. You can also share your own experiences, tips, or best practices that have helped you communicate better in fleet operations. You can also offer to help them practice or rehearse their communication skills, such as by role-playing a scenario, reviewing a document, or giving feedback.

4 Encourage and appreciate

The fourth step is to encourage and appreciate your colleague for their efforts and progress in improving their communication skills. You should acknowledge their strengths, celebrate their achievements, and reinforce their positive behaviors. You should also provide ongoing feedback and support, and monitor their communication outcomes. You should also be patient and empathetic, and understand that communication skills take time and practice to develop.

5 Model good communication

The fifth step is to model good communication yourself, and set an example for your colleague and others in fleet operations. You should demonstrate effective communication skills in your own interactions, such as by being clear, concise, courteous, and consistent. You should also follow the communication protocols, standards, and policies of your organization, and use the appropriate channels, tools, and formats. You should also be open to feedback and improvement, and show that you value communication as a key skill.

6 Collaborate and cooperate

The sixth step is to collaborate and cooperate with your colleague and others in fleet operations, and create a culture of communication. You should communicate regularly, frequently, and proactively with your colleague, and keep them informed, updated, and involved. You should also invite their input, opinions, or suggestions, and listen actively and respectfully. You should also work together to solve problems, resolve conflicts, or achieve goals, and use communication as a way to build trust, rapport, and teamwork.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?