The Importance of Explicit Communication
Ken Meyer, SHRM-SCP, SPHR
Senior Director, HR - Ryan Health | Consultant | Trainer | Speaker | Immediate Past President, New York City SHRM
In the fast-paced and complex world of modern business, effective communication is the cornerstone of successful leadership. As leaders, it is our responsibility to ensure that our messages to employees are clear, concise, and devoid of any ambiguity. This is where the significance of using explicit language comes into play. I firmly believe that explicit communication fosters transparency, boosts productivity, and cultivates a culture of trust and respect within organizations.
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In today's diverse workplace, where employees hail from various backgrounds and possess unique perspectives, the potential for misunderstandings is ever-present. By employing explicit language, leaders can eliminate room for misinterpretation, leaving no doubt about their intentions or expectations. Ambiguity can lead to confusion, which, in turn, can result in costly errors and wasted time. It is, therefore, imperative for leaders to articulate their ideas with utmost clarity.
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Furthermore, explicit communication strengthens the employer-employee relationship. When employees feel that their leaders are forthright and candid in their communication, it engenders a sense of trust and openness. This environment of trust, in turn, nurtures loyalty and dedication among the workforce. Employees are more likely to be engaged and motivated when they fully understand their roles and responsibilities, as well as the organization’s objectives.
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Moreover, explicit language plays a pivotal role in conflict resolution. Ambiguity in communication can exacerbate disagreements and create unnecessary tension within teams. On the other hand, explicitly expressed messages lay the foundation for resolving disputes swiftly and efficiently. Employees can address concerns directly and find common ground without getting lost in a sea of uncertainties.
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As leaders, we must be mindful that explicit language does not mean being harsh or insensitive. It is about finding the right balance between clarity and empathy. Using respectful and direct language demonstrates that we value our employees as individuals while fostering a culture of open communication.
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In conclusion, I emphasize the paramount importance of employing explicit language in our communication with employees. It empowers them to perform at their best, minimizes misunderstandings, and ultimately drives organizational success. By prioritizing our use of explicit language, we can build strong and cohesive teams that thrive on clear communication and mutual understanding.
Vice President of Operations and Business Development DataScreening
1 年Showing empathy before speaking to another person is an example of how communication can be improved. The issue with "explicit language" is that it may not even be "heard" if the other person is not ready to listen. The speaker must first get the other parties attention, that is by expressing empathy first, then saying whatever they have to say. If this is not done, in most cases the listener will be more inclined to "defend" their thoughts without even listening the explicit language.