In order to improve team communication you will need to set the rules for communication. This could be done by embracing the following:
- Having an open door policy – This will invite team members to come in and talk about issues before they become mammoth problems.
- Encourage two way feedback – Give feedback about how the project is going and ask team members how it can be improved. Don’t leave it until the final submission to realise that your team is completely off track.
- Clarify roles and responsibilities – Ensure that each team member knows what their role is and also what each other’s roles are.
- Build the team spirit – Ensure that team members are supportive of each other and are dedicated to the project. This can be achieved by having a bit of fun by having a barbecue, shared lunch or other team building activities.
- Use time wisely – Set times for informal coffee breaks where team members can communicate with each other easily.
- Training – Ensure all team members have the relevant skill sets and if not provide training so that they can complete their tasks more effectively.
- Use appropriate forms of communication –If team members are in different locations then video conferencing can be a good method to get a team together.
- Use on-line tools instead of meetings – Task management tools are available on line such as Wunderlist, which gives tasks to each team member and also allows messages to be shared between team members.
Coaching may assist your team to become more productive. Robyn Mercer Human Resource Consulting provides coaching services. Please visit: our Coaching Page for more information.