50 Chapter 2 Skills for Career Success
The goals of communication at work are to pass along information
and to build effective work relationships. Different styles of
communicating and different interpretations of communications can
interfere with attaining both of these goals. People from different
backgrounds may defi ne problems differently. They bring their personal
goals, priorities, and standards to their jobs. When diverse people form
team-based work groups, disagreements may occur. It is important
to remember that every person is different. That does not mean they
are diffi cult. By thinking of someone as just different, you become less
judgmental. You can be more open to their opinions and ideas.
Many of the effective communication techniques that you use in
other settings can also be used on the job. In addition, the following
points can be helpful:
•
Keep conversations unrelated to work to a minimum. These prevent
you and other employees from doing your work. Your personal
life should be kept private. Workplace gossip should be avoided.
Professionalism is expected of employees.
•
Show courtesy to customers and clients. Do not keep them waiting
while you fi nish a conversation with a fellow employee.
•
Use good listening skills. Listen carefully when directions are given.
Ask questions to prevent any misunderstandings.
•
Use standard English at work, not slang. For example, say yes rather
than yeah.
•
Avoid telling jokes at work. Because of the diverse nature of the
workforce, some people may be offended by an innocent joke.
•
If misunderstandings occur, discuss them with the person involved.
It is possible to respectfully disagree.
Reading
Review
1. True or false. In open communication, people know each other so
well that they agree about everything.
2. Give fi ve examples of ways to communicate positive feelings.
3. A communication barrier based on opinions that people form
without complete knowledge is known as _____ .
4. Identify fi ve ways to communicate negative feelings.
5. What makes communication in today’s workplace challenging?
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