Communication at the Workplace

person using phone and laptop
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on November 22, 2020 and last updated on July 20, 2023

The topic of Communication at the Workplace is vital for English learners as it equips them with essential language skills and workplace etiquette. Understanding effective workplace communication enhances learners’ ability to express themselves clearly, collaborate efficiently and resolve conflicts professionally.

By exploring this topic, learners improve their vocabulary, grammar and conversational abilities, making them more confident and competent communicators in various professional settings.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

About Communication at the Workplace

Effective communication at the workplace is a cornerstone of productivity, collaboration and success. It encompasses verbal, nonverbal and written interactions between employees, managers and clients. Clear and open communication fosters a positive work environment, minimises misunderstandings and encourages teamwork. Additionally, it plays a pivotal role in problem-solving, decision-making and building strong professional relationships.

Understanding the significance of communication at work empowers individuals to express ideas confidently, actively listen and adapt their communication styles to create a harmonious and efficient workplace culture.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • colleague (noun)
  • call into question (idiom)
  • pros and cons (idiom)
  • improvement (noun)
  • significantly (adverb)
  • communicate (verb)
  • effectiveness (noun)
  • overall (adverb)
  • currently (adverb)

Conversation Questions

My Image
  • What are the best ways of communicating with your work colleagues?
  • What ways did people communicate with their work colleagues thirty years ago?
  • What ways do people communicate with their colleagues now?
  • How can technology (emails, messaging apps, etc.) both facilitate and hinder workplace communication?
  • Is it more effective to rely on written communication (emails, memos) or face-to-face communication for important workplace matters?
  • What are the pros and cons of each method of communicating that are currently used?
  • What are some common challenges you've experienced in workplace communication?
  • How important is active listening in effective workplace communication?
  • In a multilingual workplace, what strategies can be used to ensure effective communication between team members?
  • Is it the responsibility of the employer or the employees to address communication barriers due to language differences in a multicultural workplace?
  • What are some ways to maintain a positive and inclusive communication climate in a diverse team?
  • Should employees be encouraged to use emojis and informal language in workplace communications to build rapport, or should it be avoided?
  • Should companies establish a formal communication training program for all employees to improve workplace communication skills?
  • Overall, what do you think is the best way to communicate with work colleagues?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.