FREE online courses on Is Your Team Effective - Excellence in Team Work - Communication for better teamwork

An effective communication link is vital for the well being of a team. The most appropriate method could be chosen to suit your team. The old techniques need to be supplemented by the new technology.

How to go about communication

• It is up to the team to decide a formal or an informal mode of communication within the team.
• A conversational link could be formed among team members through meetings and regular/discussions.
• Traditional methods could include letters, reports, notice boards, circulars, telephone calls and faxes.
• The changing scenario today has the electronic means, such as e-mail, intranet and groupware facilities.
• The international business world could be harnessed with video-conferencing facilities and video telephones.
• Ensure that you invest on the most appropriate technology and keep it up to date. 
• Encourage colleagues to communicate with each other.
• Area should be assigned where members could meet and talk informally.

Points to Remember

• E-mail does not allow your information to be confidential.
• Special consultants can match communication needs of any team tailoring software packages.
• Team members can assess body language and mood through videoconference.
• Video-links could be an alternative to send teams overseas for meetings.
• Old modes of communication still hold their place before the new methods.

Laughing Time

Millard proudly announced to his wife that he'd been promoted to company vice president. “Big deal!” she responded. “Vice-Presidents are a dime a dozen. Why, the supermarket where we shop has so many vice presidents, they have one who's just in charge of grocery bags.”

The annoyed husband replied, “I'll call your bluff. Let's phone the store right now.” He called and asked to speak to the vice president in charge of bags.

A polite voice enquired, “Paper or plastic?”