Workplace communication
According to a survey about 74% people (including college graduates) have speech anxiety. The work-place requires a certain level of communication skills, irrespective of what the job is. Good communication skills are a great way to make a positive first impression on your new boss and team. There are various aspects of communication and different situations require different scripts. Being prepared for these situations can take you a long way. Being prepared also helps you overcome anxiety and ace that first interaction!
Here are some communication scenarios that you can prepare for when starting your first job:
- Introducing yourself: Preparing an introduction about yourself can be critical. Having it prepared in advance is useful, especially if you’re asked to introduce yourself to senior people at your firm or colleagues. You should talk about your background, your qualifications, your experience and your interests. Since this is an introduction in a work environment, focus on your professional qualifications and end with some personal interests.
- Informal conversations: One of the tests of whether someone will be hired and grow at a firm is if you blend in outside work as well. As an employee at a firm, you’ll be required to travel from time to time with your team. You might also have work events and meals with your colleagues and manager from time to time. Be prepared with relevant topics outside the work-world that your manager and team will find both interesting and engaging.
- Speaking to your manager: If you want to have a formal conversation with your manager, request him well for a time slot in advance. Before speaking to your manager, be clear about the things you want to discuss with him/ her. Keep your tone subtle and the content succinct. Make sure to listen actively and take mental notes about the conversation. While discussing a problem with your manager, break down the entire situation and be honest about your perspective.
- Presenting in front of an audience: There may come a time that you are required to give a presentation to a team or a client. Prepare your presentation in advance with enough buffer time to get it approved by your manager. Work on talking points for each slide. Rehearse in front of a mirror or with a colleague a few times. Ensure you reach the event venue well in advance so that you feel familiar with the room and can make sure if everything required for the presentation is in place. Make eye contact with all those present instead of just one person. If questioned on your work, don’t get nervous. Instead either try and provide an answer or calmly let them know that you will get back to them. The important thing is to be calm and composed and your confidence will shine through!
Make sure you are clear on the different types of audiences you might have to interact with and the difference in communication in each setting. Tweaking your tone and preparation according to the situation will help you succeed in your early days at work and beyond!
Link to the published article: http://bit.ly/2pZv5WI
