Proper Communication Strengthens Teams

Proper communication within the science field (and most fields, let’s be honest) can be quite a challenge when many science professionals are focusing on deadlines, project structure, and technical skills. When communication skills are understood to be a vital part of this scientific and educational process, you start to see more efficient, positive results.

Strong communicators build higher levels of trust and understanding, improve overall performance of the team, collaboration becomes easier, and outcomes are improved. If we can start communicating properly when presented with a stressful, conflict-heavy situation, we can find solutions faster and eliminate misunderstanding and miscommunication.

Poor communication can be seen many ways such as being dismissive, not listening, talking down, unclear instructions, no feedback, etc. These methods can lead to low morale, increased tension, limited collaboration and isolated teammates. This is the opposite of the positive work environment we want to create, where feedback is encouraged and listened to and everyone has a voice. If we do not prioritize strengthening our communication skills, it could lead to conflict amongst team members and associated stakeholders.

Instead, we want to practice our active listening, building emotional intelligence, asking clarifying questions and clearly communicating needs and expectations. Once you establish a culture where this style of communication is expected, workflow will happen faster and your overall production will improve.

When we recognize conflict early, we can utilize these strong communication skills to make sure the problem doesn’t escalate. These skills along with strengthening your emotional intelligence take practice, time, effort and energy to build but have major benefits for your team.