How to Improve Your Communication Skills in the Workplace (Part 2)

This is the second in a two-part series about communication skills in the workplace. Part I discusses how people speak. Part II discusses how people think.

How good are your communication skills?

Research shows that people with good communication skills in the workplace get more promotions, are paid better, and have lower stress than people with bad communication skills. 

The challenge is that most people don’t know the #1 secret to improved communication. 

I discuss that secret (along with several other key concepts) in a new video on my YouTube channel. 

It’s based on research from Xerox and other organizations. I call it MindMapping and it explores the four ways the human brain processes information. 

One of the most important aspects of MindMapping is to use it when communicating with others. It’s important to understand your own communication style, but it’s even more important to understand the communication style of the person you’re speaking to.

For example, if you’re speaking to your CFO, the odds are they’re heavy on the analytical quadrant. Given that, you’ll want to use the vocabulary listed in the image below.

Or, if you’re speaking to an entrepreneur or any other big-picture visionary, use the language in the Imaginative quadrant.

With someone who is highly empathetic, you’ll use the language in the Interpersonal quadrant.

And with someone who is highly-organized and systematic, you’ll want to use the language in the Sequential quadrant.

Check out the vocabulary list below and use these words (and words like them) the next time you’re communicating with someone in your office.

There’s a lot to unpack here, but if you practice these techniques, it can be a game-changer for your career.

Interested in taking a more in-depth look at how to improve your communication in the workplace? If so, then watch the short, 4-minute video below for additional tips … plus, you’ll learn the #1 secret to better communication.

Let me know if you have any other questions about improving your communication skills in the workplace. I teach these skills as part of my Unspoken Rules of Leadership program at events and corporations around the globe.

About the Author: Jamie Turner is an internationally recognized author, professor, consultant, and speaker who has helped employees at The Coca-Cola Company, Holiday Inn, Microsoft, Verizon and others do a better job leading, managing, and mentoring others. You may have seen Jamie in Inc., Entrepreneur, Business Insider, or Forbes. He’s also a regular guest on CNN and HLN, where he delivers segments on marketing, persuasion, and leadership. Jamie is the co-author of several essential business books and his YouTube channel was designated one of the “Top 10 Business YouTube Channels” in the nation by Wishpond.com.