Poor communication vs effective communication

Poor communication vs effective communication

When people are working as a group, collaboration is necessary to foster teamwork. However, there are potential challenges that may arise, affecting collaboration among the group working together on a project. One problem likely to occur is poor communication. Although Gail, the project manager, has good communication skills, the other team members have characteristics that may hinder collaboration. For instance, Larry is not an attentive listener and does not speak much. Melissa is not good at sharing ideas with the group members. Lack of collaboration will occur when Larry misses vital information the project manager might be passing along. Melissa may have poor collaborative skills with other members as she does not comfortable with communicating with others. Poor communication will lead to a lack of collaboration in the group.

Another potential challenge that may hamper collaboration in this team is a lack of compromise. A team consists of people with different ideas and opinions. Team members must be willing to compromise. Robert, one of the group members, seems to lack the ability to compromise and is constantly against the ideas of other members of the group. Robert’s behavior may dampen the will of other team players to collaborate hence affecting group collaboration.

The collaborative skills I would employ to create a more positive atmosphere for group collaboration include; open discussions and offering the group continuous feedback. I would conduct open discussions as they encourage the participation of every group member. I would make sure that all members give their ideas and opinions concerning the project. I would encourage Larry to share his thoughts with the group as he appears to be less vocal. For Melissa, who seems hesitant, I would encourage her to contribute by making her aware that her views are respected and valued. Open discussions will create enthusiasm among the group for the project at hand. Also, I would encourage brainstorming as it will allow the group members to share ideas and ask questions when necessary hence enhancing collaboration. I would always give feedback to the group about their performance. I would give praise concerning areas the team is making progress. Appreciation will motivate the group to be more productive and enhance teamwork.

Additionally, a group working on a project needs to hear how they are performing so they can feel motivated. Aside from positive feedback, I will also point out areas where they are making mistakes. For instance, I will inform Robert that it is wrong not to consider suggestions from other members of the group. By addressing the issue, I will help Robert see his mistake, who will, in turn, begin to be open-minded about other people’s ideas. This way, I will have created a positive atmosphere for the group to work together.

Effective communication is essential for the group to complete their project successfully. Effective communication for this group will comprise of engaged listening and understanding and proper use of nonverbal communication. Engaged listening involves listening attentively to what the other person is saying. If, for instance, Larry focuses on what other group members are saying, he will learn helpful things about the project. Larry’s focus should not only be about the project but also on what others say.

The group also needs an understanding of non-verbal communication and its use. For instance, when Robert is speaking, he tends to point his finger on the group repeatedly. The gesture Robert is using makes it appear as if he is accusing the group of something, therefore, making the others feel uneasy. Robert may be using this gesture unconsciously, or he does not know its meaning. For effective communication to occur, Robert needs to understand the use of non-verbal communication and its impact on the group. Besides, it is essential to understand other people’s non-verbal cues. The group needs to understand each other’s non-verbal communication for effective communication.

Each person in the group has verbal and non-verbal cues. Gail’s verbal cue is speaking clearly and in an effective manner. Larry’s non-verbal cue is being inattentive during group discussions. Robert’s verbal cue is giving opinions and opposing others’ suggestions, and his non-verbal cue is pointing his finger at the group when speaking. Melissa’s non-verbal cues are shyness and being uncomfortable in the group setting.

Defensive verbal and non-verbal communication affects workplace relationships. People are likely to display defensive behavior in a conflict or a threat. For instance, crossing arms during an argument is a non-verbal defensive stance. An example of defensive verbal communication is raising one’s voice. Defensive communication hinders effective communication; and also affects the relationship between workmates and their superiors.

Active listening will enhance group collaboration. If each person in the group practices active listening, they will be able to understand each other well. Also, the group will be able to actively listen to each others’ ideas, discuss and implement the best ideas for the project. Additionally, active listening will help the group to solve conflicts as they arise since each person will listen to what the other has to say so they can settle disputes.