Understanding Workplace
Hi Suzy,
I know that you are a little nervous about starting in a completely new environment, but having a good understanding of workplace communication will help you out tremendously!
The first key to understanding workplace is communication is understanding the components of communication. These components are the individual receiving the message, the context of the message, person receiving the message, and the content of the message (Cheesebro, O’Connor, & Rios, 2010).
The sender needs to make sure the message is clear and detailed so that the receiver can share the meaning of the message with the sender (Cheesebro, O’Connor, & Rios, 2010).
The context of the message is how the sender delivered it. Watch their nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice to help you determine the tone.
The person receiving the message needs to listen carefully and make sure there is a clear understanding. Asking questions for clarification is important here if you didn’t quite understand what they were saying.
Lastly, the content of the message needs to be clear and be detailed enough that the receiver can get a good understanding.
There are a few types of communication you will encounter in the office. First is small talk. This can serve as an icebreaker, and helps you form relationships while building a good rapport (Cheesebro, O’Connor, & Rios, 2010).
Secondly, you have your information talk. This comes after you have gotten to know someone. This is when you share information about yourself such as hobbies, personal interests, favorite sports, etc. In the workplace, you and your coworkers will use this to get your job done (Cheesebro, O’Connor, & Rios, 2010).
You will also run into a particularly risky type of communication- opinion talk. This is when you let others know what you think about various subjects. When you do this, you will open yourself up to criticism. If you can understand that opinions are only representing personal perspectives, you may choose to stay away