COMMUNICATION

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4 min read

Getting the information you need to better perform your work


Communication is important to achieving productivity, better performance and stronger work relationships. More than just conversations, communication is about the exchange of information through various formal and informal mediums such as email, intranet, peers, managers, etc.

Understandably at the workplace, there will be some information that is confidential and available only to certain groups of employees. The company internal communications might address the company generally but does not address aspects of what the information means for your work. These could be some situations that leave you requiring more information. It is possible for you to get the information you need to better perform your work with the right approach and structure.

 

pexels-polina-zimmerman-3778619

 

Before you approach anyone for information, pondering on the following might help with understanding what exactly you are looking for:

 

  1. Has there been an occasion whereby you felt that you could have done your work better if you had more information at the get-go?

  2. What kind of information is it and who could possibly provide you this piece of information more readily and accurately?

  3. Is there a regular interval at which you would like to receive this information so that it helps you with your work?

 
Let’s put this in
work context

 

Not all information is created equal. Depending on how far the information is from the source, some details can be lost or changed along the way due to interpretation. You might want to consider the following when asking for information to better perform at work:

  1. Based on the type of information you need, identify the person who you think might be the most suitable to answer your question in terms of accuracy and reliability.

  2. Address the potential concerns that the person might have when sharing the information with you. For example, some employees may be concerned about how the information may be misused or misinterpreted by others. Ease their minds by telling them how you intend to use the information, whether you are intending to share the information with others (or not), and how the information sharing may also benefit them in the long run.

  3. Identify whether the information you require is needed at a regular interval. If yes, let the person know and help the person understand why a regular cadence is needed by sharing how the regular cadence will better enable you at work.

 

 

 

“

A wise man’s question contains half the answer

 

– Solomon Ibn Gabirol

 

 

 

 

It is helpful to think about how to set better goals and how goal setting motivates you.

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