For communication in the workplace to be effective it needs to include everyone and be honest and open. One of the main ways to encourage such communication is by making sure that there are no recriminations. Many employers ask for open opinions, and employees to express their feelings, when really they can't handle the truth. I can never understand workplaces that claim to have an 'open door policy' yet only want employees to praise them.

Communication between all levels of staff can make for a better working environment, a wealth of ideas and a more efficient business. However it needs to be embraced fully and not just be given lip service. My husband's employer professes to want people to express their ideas and voice opinions but in real terms that's not the case.

To encourage effective communication try to:

Hold regular staff meetings were all can be heard.

Minute these meetings and make sure that any person responsible for a great idea is recognized. All too often the boss will take the credit for an employees idea. All this does is ensure that employee does not come up with great ideas in the future.

Feedback on any suggestions and ideas at the next meeting.

Implement those ideas which have a sound, practicable basis.

Make sure your 'open door policy' is just that. An employee should never be frightened to raise genuine concerns.

Include everyone whether they are the most menial worker or the most senior.

Keep staff aware of planned changes. If you do not the workplace gossip will ensure that a worst case scenario is envisaged.

Start a reward scheme, that gives staff little perks for coming up with ideas and useful suggestions.

Circulate a staff newsletter on a monthly basis. Offer all staff the chance to contribute.

Employers often forget that their staff are adults and as such deserve to be treat accordingly. Personally I dislike a boss who edges around and skirts the truth. This behaviour leaves me with no respect for the person, nor having any faith in them. I have worked in different types of working cultures over the years, some which have been good and others which have been not so good. If you work somewhere that appreciates your input, and acts on it when appropriate, you will undoubtedly make a better employee.

One of the fundamentals of good teamwork is communication and mutual respect. After all, in the way respect seems to generate respect, communication usually leads to more communication.

Learn more about this author, Ethel Smith.
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