Effective communication is key to building a good relationship and teamwork in a workplace. But, it becomes challenging for employees who spend their work hours working from home. A simple mistake can lead to misunderstanding.

Thanks to the advent of technology, building effective communication while working from home is not a major problem anymore for many people. Online platforms make it easier for companies and team leaders to create an efficient communication channel.

However, there are some more vital things to consider relating to your self-awareness. So, we've garnered six ways to build effective communication while working from home.

These simple tips can also help you maintain good connections with your teams and complete assignments on time. So, you can have a wonderful rest time while playing blockchain games at home.

#1. Use Online Communication Tools

An online communication tool is always obligatory for remote working. Often, companies use a specific chatting app that's less popular for daily life. So, work-related conversations won't bother them as the work hours end.

As there are many options, choosing a chat app is no longer a simple job. If you're a manager, consider your employees' preferences before choosing one.

Pick a chatting app that can perform vital actions, such as sending a message, voice, file, images, and videos. Make sure you can create groups for each department for better management. Moreover, your app should be available for mobile and desktop use.

#2. Leverage Project Management Tools

It's necessary for a company to invest in a project management tool. An excellent one will significantly help employees communicate efficiently and maintain productivity.

A project management tool is a primary channel to see updates, progress, or other status related to a project. You can assign specific assignments directly to your teams or easily create a collaboration with others.

There are many project management tool options. They vary depending on your needs. Some of the most famous names are Asana, Basecamp, Trello, and Workamajig. They're famous for having various features, such as monitoring your individual or group tasks, deadlines set, creating to-do lists, and file sharing to help you maintain performance.

#3. Always Employ the Three C's

Setting aside the technology, your self-awareness is perhaps what matters the most in building communication. The rule of thumb of good communication has always been the Three C's.

The Three C's stand for clear, consistent, and concise. Clear communication helps you avoid misunderstanding. Consistency deals with how and when you communicate, including what channels you consistently use.

Moreover, concise refers to brief and straightforward delivery so that the addressee can get the point immediately and effortlessly. Here are some points to consider when calling, messaging, or sending emails to your work peer.

• Deliver the appropriate amount of context

• Create short and direct sentences

• Clearly state your intention, such as what you need or recommend

• Include important information related to the matter if necessary

• Avoid beating around the bush

#4. Create Regular Check-Ins

Creating regular check-ins is another tip to make your communication funnel run smoothly. It will be beneficial for your colleagues to contact you without getting too doubtful and anxious.

You can set predictable times each week or availability on certain days. It will be best if every team member does the same thing to build mutual knowledge and keep everyone on the same page. Most importantly, they can catch up easily and avoid misunderstanding.

#5. Hold Virtual Meetings Regularly

Weekly or monthly meetings are necessary for every organization. It's the time when they communicate and share updates, progress, or other discussions in real time.

Holding a regular virtual meeting will keep your team engaged. You can do small talks and catch up with each other before getting to the point. This way, you can improve teamwork and maintain good connections.

Moreover, virtual meetings can be a space for team members to discuss projects, ask questions, and find solutions together. Without you realizing it, meetings can be a good way to maintain a good workflow and performance.

#6. Avoid Communication Overload

Appropriate communication related to work is key to a balanced life. Remember that every employee has their own personal life. Excessive communication can bother their personal space and make them more vulnerable to burnout.

Understandably, every company wants its employees to stay connected and updated with each other. But, making them available and reachable 24/7 for work matters will only kill their productivity and motivation.

Therefore, avoid sending your work peer endless instant messages as it can be disturbing. Also, set a regular schedule for a virtual meeting. Holding a meeting once a week is more than enough to discuss a project.

Takeaway

Developing good communication with your remote team can be tricky, but it is never impossible. Leveraging the technology by using an online messaging app and project management tool can help maintain effective communication and productivity.

Furthermore, having a good sense of self-awareness is also a must to be mindful of others. In addition, learn to know people's preferences to set boundaries and build healthy relationships among colleagues even though you work separately.

About the Author:

Andre Oentoro is the founder of Breadnbeyond, an award-winning explainer video production company. He helps businesses increase conversion rates, close more sales, and get positive ROI from explainer videos (in that order).

Twitter: @breadnbeyond

Email/Gravatar: [email protected]

LinkedIn: Andre Oentoro