“I Suck at Communication. How Can I Improve This Skill at Work?”

“I Suck at Communication. How Can I Improve This Skill at Work?” was originally published on The Muse, a great place to research companies and careers. Click here to search for great jobs and companies near you.

Imagine you’re in a meeting, trying to explain your idea, but the words just don’t come out right, and everyone looks…confused. Or maybe you’re on a video call, wanting to speak up without interrupting, but by the time you do, the conversation has already moved on. If experiences like this make you think, “I suck at communication, how can I improve?”—you’ve clicked on the right article.

There are many ways to strengthen this skill at work and start communicating more confidently. In this article, we’ll cover why improving communication in the workplace matters and how to get there.

The importance of improving communication skills

Communication is considered a critical competency for career readiness in the The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) 2024 Career Readiness Competencies report.

The report emphasizes that effective communication skills—both verbal and written—are essential in the workplace, contributing to an individual’s ability to clearly convey ideas, actively listen, and collaborate with diverse teams.

“The concept of workplace communication has evolved to encompass more than just transmitting information; it also involves understanding the feelings and intentions behind the exchange,” says Dr. Michelle Dees, a board-certified psychiatrist. “These aspects are crucial for facilitating a better understanding of messages, reducing the likelihood of misinterpretations, and enhancing the corporate culture of the organization.”

If you struggle with communication at work—or in life, really—here are some reasons to work at it.

  • Enhanced collaboration: In a workplace filled with diverse teams, effective communication fosters collaboration. “It allows teams to share ideas and understand one another’s roles,” says Jamie Archer, co-founder of DiversityEmployment.com. “Whether you’re leading a team or contributing to one, clear communication helps everyone stay on the same page, which boosts productivity.”
  • Career advancement: A separate 2024 NACE survey found that employers rank communication skills as the top attribute in job candidates. Plus, professionals who communicate well are often perceived as leaders, making them more likely to be promoted.
  • Conflict resolution: Poor communication often leads to conflicts. By improving your communication skills, you can navigate disagreements more effectively and foster a positive work environment.
  • Improved confidence: The better you become at communicating, the more confident you’ll feel in your abilities. This newfound confidence can have a ripple effect on your overall job performance.
  • Increased productivity: Clear communication minimizes misunderstandings, reducing the time spent on clarifications and corrections. In turn, this can lead to higher productivity and efficiency.

Given the significant role that communication plays in professional settings, it’s essential to actively work on enhancing this skill. But how do you go about communication improvement at work? Below are some actionable tips and different ways to improve communication.

How to improve communication skills at work

Communication skills go beyond speaking clearly; they involve listening actively, being aware of nonverbal cues, and responding thoughtfully to colleagues. Whether you’re leading meetings, collaborating on projects, or simply chatting with coworkers, developing your communication style can open doors to new opportunities and help you excel in your career.

Now, let’s explore some practical tips for improving communication in the workplace.

1. Practice active listening

One of the most critical components of effective communication is listening. Active listening involves fully concentrating, understanding, and responding to the speaker.

“Many people focus on what they’re going to say next rather than truly hearing the other person,” says therapist and coach John Sovec. “When someone is speaking, try not to interrupt. Take a pause before responding to show you’re considering their point. You’ll find people feel valued and respected, and they’ll likely return the favor.”

Here are other techniques to enhance your active listening skills:

  • Offer your full attention. Put away distractions, such as your phone or computer, during conversations.
  • Use non-verbal cues. Nod, maintain eye contact, and show your engagement through body language.
  • Paraphrase and summarize. Reflect on what the speaker has said by paraphrasing their points to ensure understanding.

2. Be clear and concise

Clarity is essential in communication. “Whether you’re writing an email or speaking in a meeting, aim to get your message across simply and directly,” Archer says. “Skip using any slang unless everyone’s familiar with it, and make your points in a clear, logical order.”

To ensure your message is understood, follow these tips:

  • Know your audience. Tailor your language and tone to suit the person or group you’re addressing.
  • Use simple language. Avoid jargon unless necessary. Plain language is often more effective.
  • Stick to the point. Keep your messages focused and avoid unnecessary details.

3. Develop emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to understand and manage your emotions and those of others. Improving your EI with these actionable tips can significantly enhance your communication skills.

  • Cultivate self-awareness. Recognize your emotions and their impact on your communication style.
  • Practice empathy. Understand the emotions of others to respond appropriately and build rapport.
  • Regulate your emotions. Learn to control your emotional reactions, especially during challenging conversations.

4. Use technology wisely

In a digital workplace, effective communication often involves technology. Here’s how to leverage it.

  • Choose the right tools. Select appropriate communication platforms for different contexts (e.g., email for formal communication, chat apps for quick questions).
  • Be mindful of tone. Written communication can sometimes be misinterpreted. Use emojis or GIFs sparingly to convey tone when necessary.
  • Follow up. Confirm receipt of important messages and ensure clarity through follow-up emails or calls.

“With remote work on the rise, it’s more important than ever to know how to write clear emails, use chat platforms, and participate in virtual meetings,” Archer says. “Being prompt, polite, and clear in digital formats will improve the understanding of your message.”

5. Practice public speaking

Public speaking is an integral part of professional communication. Improve your public speaking skills in the following ways.

  • Join a local speaking group. Organizations like Toastmasters provide a supportive environment to practice public speaking.
  • Rehearse presentations. Practice your presentations multiple times in front of a mirror or record yourself to analyze your delivery.
  • Seek opportunities. Volunteer to lead meetings or give presentations to gain experience.

6. Observe and learn from others

Take note of effective communicators in your workplace or industry—then learn all you can from them.

  • Identify role models. Look for colleagues or leaders whose communication style resonates with you.
  • Analyze their techniques. Pay attention to their body language, tone, and how they structure their messages.
  • Adapt and incorporate. Try incorporating some of their techniques into your own communication style.

7. Ask for feedback on your communication style

Don’t hesitate to seek feedback from trusted colleagues.

  • Be specific. Ask for feedback on particular aspects of your communication, such as clarity or tone.
  • Create a safe space. Ensure your colleagues feel comfortable providing honest feedback.
  • Reflect on the feedback. Take time to consider the feedback and identify areas for improvement.

Bottom line

Effective communication isn’t just about speaking—it’s about creating meaningful connections and fostering understanding. “As you develop these skills, you’ll not only make a positive impact on your own career but also enrich the professional environment around you,” Sovec says. So, embrace the challenge, improve your communication skills at work, and watch your confidence and career soar!

Show off your newly improved communication skills in your next interview—check these amazing open jobs on The Muse and find the perfect fit for you »