The smooth and effective operation of a team or teams within a business is one of the keys to its success, so if communication breaks down it is essential that any issues are addressed quickly.
There are five main problems in a team (as described in Patrick Lencioni’s 2002 book The Five Dysfunctions of a Team)
- Absence of Trust
- Fear of Conflict
- Lack of Commitment
- Avoidance of Accountability
- Inattention to Results
Your approach to overcome communication breakdowns in your teams will need to differ depending on the issue, but here are some general tips for resolving communication problems in your teams
Open Communication
Trust breaks down when team members do not feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas. Foster a positive culture of open communication and ensure that there are multiple channels of communication open to all team members, as different people have different preferences.
Clear Goals
Accountability and results can only be accurately measured if the goals set are clear to everyone. You must set goals for the business, as well as the team and the individuals in that team. Ensure everyone understands their role and has all the training and resources they need to achieve their goals.
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Constructive Feedback
Encourage active listening…where you listen without speaking and then ask clarifying questions. Provide constructive feedback when required and check-in with team members regularly.
Communication Guidelines
Establish communication guidelines within the business. This could include expected response times, preferred communication channels and guides for written and verbal communications. Not everyone communicates in the same way, so by setting the expectations everyone understands how to communicate effectively.
Address Conflicts Promptly
As the leader it is your responsibility to address conflict and this should be done promptly. Encourage an open conversation, with each person expressing their view without judgement. Work together to find a mutually agreeable solution. If necessary, involve a neutral party for mediation.
Test and Measure
Here it is again, that ActionCOACH mantra! Arrange regular check-ins with your team, individually and as a group to assess communications and identify areas that could be improved. Encourage your teams to be actively involved in this process.
By having clear, regular communication and allowing all team members the opportunity to embrace communication methods which are comfortable for them you will soon be able to overcome communication breakdowns within your teams and have a happier, more successful business.
If you are experiencing problems within your teams why not jump on to one of our Weekly Live Coaching Sessions and get access to Business Coaches with decades of team building and leadership experience to draw on.
By Duncan McKechnie
Join the NoLimits Business Community
Are you a business owner looking to take your business to the next level? Join our innovative community of like-minded professionals and gain access to a wealth of valuable resources, including a community portal to chat with other business owners, ebooks, business development software, and growth events that will transform the way you do business. Best of all, these resources are completely free and will be available to you forever.
But the benefits of joining our NoLimits business community don’t stop there. By becoming part of our community, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with other business owners, share insights and ideas, and build valuable relationships that will help your business thrive. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to supercharge your business and join us today!