We are all aware that effective team communication is important to success. Teams that are unable to communicate effectively do not function as a unit. Responsibilities, expectations, and information become muddled, resulting in a variety of failures. Teams with a strong communication proclivity, on the other hand, develop positive synergies.  

Business communication problems are not always the result of a lack of effort. They arise because of communication gaps between team members. People cannot work effectively together if they are not on the same page.  

Access to the right team communication tools can help bridge these gaps and improve collaboration. What makes the difference? Using online team communication tools like Clariti for instance. 

Here are essential types of team communication strategies and some of the best options for remote teams. 

Teamwork communication formats and channels 

Team communication will differ depending on industry and role, but there are generally two formats: written or verbal. Each team has its own unique combination of the two formats, delivered through various channels in the way that best suits their needs. 

• Verbal team communication 

Video or phone calls, team meetings, 1:1s, and casual water-cooler conversations are all examples of verbal communication in a team. Nonverbal communication is important in these interactions because others can read your body language and facial expressions. 

• Written team communication 

Emails, team chats, and paper or electronic documentation are all examples of written communication. As written communication is open to interpretation, quality communication is even more important in a written format; take special care to assess whether the reader might misinterpret your words. 

4 types of team communication styles 

In teamwork, there are four distinct communication styles that heavily influence how people interact with each of their colleagues. Each person contains elements of each style, but they may find that they resonate more strongly with one or the other. 

1. Passive 

Passive communicators may struggle to express themselves or may completely avoid expressing their feelings, needs, or opinions. As a result, they are more likely to prioritize the needs of others over their own, even at their own expense. This type of business communication is risky because it allows resentment and anger to fester and grow. 

2. Aggressive 

In a crowd, an aggressive communicator stands out; these individuals are frequently the loudest in the room, speaking over others and controlling the narrative during a discussion. Aggressive communicators have difficulty listening to others or considering the impact of their opinions, actions, or ideas on them. When confronted, these individuals will respond with defensive hostility or aggression, and they may dismiss their point of view or issue entirely. 

3. Passive-Aggressive 

Although they may appear to be content on the outside, passive-aggressive communicators may harbor resentment, which will inevitably manifest in subtle ways. While these people are aware of their feelings and needs, they find it difficult to express them and struggle to admit their anger or how they truly feel. They do an excellent job of pretending that everything is fine when, in reality, they are suffering silently. 

4. Assertive 

In their interactions, assertive communicators use open, genuine, and direct communication. They speak with intention and with the integrity of their feelings, and their actions usually match their words. They can find ways to express themselves while also considering the feelings, needs, and ideas of those around them, fostering open and honest conversations in which everyone has a chance to speak. With "I" statements, assertive communicators claim ownership of their feelings or actions ("I feel ...). Assertive communication is thought to be the most effective form of communication and the ideal to strive for in every interaction; it is healthy, respectful, and honest. 

8 Effective team communication tips 

Excellent communication is more likely in successful work teams when an organization prioritizes teambuilding and provides employees with opportunities to connect with one another and with the organization. Here are some suggestions for improving your team's communication: 

1. Encourage transparency and openness 

As they facilitate honest conversations and trust-building, openness and transparency play important roles in the importance of communication in teamwork. Team members will feel empowered in their roles and as members of the team when they can openly discuss issues, ask for help or clarification, and trust each other and their leaders. 

2. Respect for all points of view 

Respecting the opinions of others, even if they differ from your own, is an essential component of an effective team communication strategy. Respectful workplaces encourage employees to express their opinions and ideas, listen to one another, and cooperate when working together. Because of the importance of group communication and the role that respect plays, the entire team can benefit from a lower stress, more positive, and welcoming environment. 

3. Define each function 

When each team member's role is clearly defined, they know exactly what is expected of them, their responsibilities, and what they must do to succeed. Having clearly defined roles benefits an organization because it leads to better cooperation and higher productivity because employees understand exactly how they can contribute to their positions. 

4. Allow for two-way communication 

Managers should welcome opportunities to grow and learn from their employees, and feedback should always be two-way. Employees who have the ability to express concerns or doubts to management are more likely to find solutions and solve problems. Without two-way feedback, leaders are in the dark about their employees' needs or issues, which can quickly escalate into something far more dangerous. As a result, two-way feedback is essential for maintaining effective team communication skills. 

5. Make teambuilding a top priority 

Allow employees to get to know one another outside of work and form deeper bonds through team-building activities and events. This promotes conversation in a less stressful environment, allowing team members to build trust and foster a more united company culture. There are numerous excellent team-building activities available, regardless of team size. 

6. Create a routine 

Develop a routine that works best for you and prioritizes frequent and open communication amongst your team members. You may want to implement daily check-ins, weekly 1:1s, and monthly or biweekly all-team meetings to facilitate such discussions. Each meeting allows employees and leaders to clarify any issues that require clarification, strategize for success, and promote alignment. 

7. Empathy should be practiced 

Empathetic team communication is a method of adapting your communication style to communicate with others in the way they prefer rather than the way you prefer. Be mindful of your interactions and keep the following in mind: 

• WHAT the other party hopes to gain from the interaction 

• WHY they desire it 

• HOW do they wish to interact? 

By considering these factors before engaging in a conversation, you can ensure that your communication is tailored to their needs, allowing both of you to get the most out of the conversation. 

8. Set a good example 

Finally, put your words into action! If you want your employees to adopt new communication practices, you must set a good example and inspire them to do the same. A leader must lead their team and organization to success; in order to do so, they must embody the concepts and behaviors that they expect from their employees. Employees are more likely to follow suit if they see management contributing to a healthy and communicative environment. 

 
Conclusion 

Team communication is the foundation of an effective workforce, and implementing practices that address communication issues and encourage healthy conversation is critical to an organization's success. Online tools like Clariti foster remote team communications and are essential for team building and success.