Every day we are subject to multiple types of communication in the workplace. Verbal, when we chat with our customers in person or on the phone. Written, when we post updates on social media or reply to emails. Nonverbal, when we see the smiles on the faces of our customers loving our products or services! So it’s not without merit that I say communication is an essential part of running a successful business. In other words, communication can make or break your business.

Plato once said, “Wise me talk because they have something to say; fools, because they have to say something.”

As business owners, we should take notice of what Plato said. The words we say, the sentences we type and our nonverbal ways of communicating not only reflect upon us as individuals but our business too. Today I’m going to share with you some of my tips on how communicating well can help you position your business more favourably.

Business Communications Dos and Don’ts

Ever heard that phrase, ‘the customer is always right?’ It’s one often toted by managers who advise their front-line employees to accept what the customer says is truthful and not argue about it with them. The truth is though, customers aren’t always right and sometimes they are so far off base that it really gets up our noses!

However, telling customers that it was their fault something broke, didn’t work the way it was supposed to or was the wrong size isn’t going to do your business any favours. But sucking up your comments and apologising for any inconvenience will.

Here are two more of my tips to help you communicate well in your business:

• Listen – poor listening skills can lead to numerous issues for a business. It’s not often done on purpose, but rather because we are distracted or feel under pressure time wise. Try to focus on what is being said, paraphrasing back to the speaker what you have heard to affirm you are listening and taking it in.
• Be aware of the problem of perception – we’re all individuals and understand things differently. Like thinking the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence, in business we can see things others can’t. This can lead to arguments. Instead, try to understand that others have differing viewpoints. While you don’t have to agree with them, you need to accept them.

Communication good or bad has a snowball effect. People, be that customers, clients, employees and employers will notice what you say and do, as well as what you don’t say and don’t do! To ensure things run smoothly with the way your business communicates, it’s best to set some goals. Why not make a time with me to have a goal-setting session today?!