"THE OPTIMIST SEES OPPORTUNITY IN EVERY DIFFICULTY". WINSTON CHURCHILL
Tuesday 24 March 2015
Small Talk: Who, What, Where, When, Why?
Small talk
In most English-speaking countries, it is normal and
necessary to make "small talk" in certain situations. Small talk is a
casual form of conversation that "breaks the ice" or fills an awkward
silence between people. Even though you may feel shy using your second
language, it is sometimes considered rude to say nothing. Just as there are
certain times when small talk is appropriate, there are also certain topics
that people often discuss during these moments.
Small talk is an informal type of discourse
that does not cover any functional topics of conversation
or any transactions that need to be addressed.[1]
Small talk is conversation for its own sake. The
phenomenon of small talk was initially studied in 1923 by Bronisław Malinowski, who coined the term
"phatic
communication" to describe it. The ability to conduct small talk is a social
skill; hence, small talk is some type of social communication. Early publications
assume networked work positions as suitable for social communication.
Small Talk: Who, What, Where, When, Why?
WHO makes small talk?
People with many different relationships use small talk. The most common type of people to use small talk are those who do not know each other at all. Though we often teach children not to talk to strangers, adults are expected to say at least a few words in certain situations (see where). It is also common for people who are only acquaintances, often called a "friend of a friend", to use small talk. Other people who have short casual conversations are office employees who may not be good friends but work in the same department. Customer service representatives, waitresses, hairdressers and receptionists often make small talk with customers. If you happen to be outside when the mailman comes to your door you might make small talk with him too.
People with many different relationships use small talk. The most common type of people to use small talk are those who do not know each other at all. Though we often teach children not to talk to strangers, adults are expected to say at least a few words in certain situations (see where). It is also common for people who are only acquaintances, often called a "friend of a friend", to use small talk. Other people who have short casual conversations are office employees who may not be good friends but work in the same department. Customer service representatives, waitresses, hairdressers and receptionists often make small talk with customers. If you happen to be outside when the mailman comes to your door you might make small talk with him too.
WHAT do people make small talk about?
There are certain "safe" topics that people usually make small talk about. The weather is probably the number one thing that people who do not know each other well discuss. Sometimes even friends and family members discuss the weather when they meet or start a conversation. Another topic that is generally safe is current events. As long as you are not discussing a controversial issue, such as a recent law concerning equal rights, it is usually safe to discuss the news. Sports news is a very common topic, especially if a local team or player is in a tournament or play-off or doing extremely well or badly. Entertainment news, such as a celebrity who is in town, is another good topic. If there is something that you and the other speaker has in common, that may also be acceptable to talk about. For example, if the bus is extremely full and there are no seats available you might talk about reasons why. Similarly, people in an office might casually discuss the new paint or furniture. There are also some subjects that are not considered acceptable when making small talk. Discussing personal information such as salaries or a recent divorce is not done between people who do not know each other well. Compliments on clothing or hair are acceptable; however, you should never say something (good or bad) about a person's body. Negative comments about another person not involved in the conversation are also not acceptable: when you do not know a person well you cannot be sure who their friends are. You do not talk about private issues either, because you do not know if you can trust the other person with your secrets or personal information. Also, it is not safe to discuss subjects that society deems controversial such as religion or politics. Lastly, it is not wise to continue talking about an issue that the other person does not seem comfortable with or interested in.
There are certain "safe" topics that people usually make small talk about. The weather is probably the number one thing that people who do not know each other well discuss. Sometimes even friends and family members discuss the weather when they meet or start a conversation. Another topic that is generally safe is current events. As long as you are not discussing a controversial issue, such as a recent law concerning equal rights, it is usually safe to discuss the news. Sports news is a very common topic, especially if a local team or player is in a tournament or play-off or doing extremely well or badly. Entertainment news, such as a celebrity who is in town, is another good topic. If there is something that you and the other speaker has in common, that may also be acceptable to talk about. For example, if the bus is extremely full and there are no seats available you might talk about reasons why. Similarly, people in an office might casually discuss the new paint or furniture. There are also some subjects that are not considered acceptable when making small talk. Discussing personal information such as salaries or a recent divorce is not done between people who do not know each other well. Compliments on clothing or hair are acceptable; however, you should never say something (good or bad) about a person's body. Negative comments about another person not involved in the conversation are also not acceptable: when you do not know a person well you cannot be sure who their friends are. You do not talk about private issues either, because you do not know if you can trust the other person with your secrets or personal information. Also, it is not safe to discuss subjects that society deems controversial such as religion or politics. Lastly, it is not wise to continue talking about an issue that the other person does not seem comfortable with or interested in.
WHERE do people make small talk?
People make small talk just about anywhere, but there are certain places where it is very common. Most often, small talk occurs in places where people are waiting for something. For example, you might chat with another person who is waiting for the bus to arrive, or to the person beside you waiting to get on an aeroplane. People also make small talk in a doctor's or dentist's waiting room, or in queues at the grocery store. At the office, people make small talk in elevators or lunchrooms and even in restrooms, especially if there is a line-up. Some social events (such as a party) require small talk among guests who do not know each other very well. For example, you might talk to someone you do not know at the punch bowl, or at the poolside. It is called "mingling" when people walk around in a social setting and talk to a variety of people.
People make small talk just about anywhere, but there are certain places where it is very common. Most often, small talk occurs in places where people are waiting for something. For example, you might chat with another person who is waiting for the bus to arrive, or to the person beside you waiting to get on an aeroplane. People also make small talk in a doctor's or dentist's waiting room, or in queues at the grocery store. At the office, people make small talk in elevators or lunchrooms and even in restrooms, especially if there is a line-up. Some social events (such as a party) require small talk among guests who do not know each other very well. For example, you might talk to someone you do not know at the punch bowl, or at the poolside. It is called "mingling" when people walk around in a social setting and talk to a variety of people.
WHEN do people make small talk?
The most common time for small talk to occur is the first time you see or meet someone on a given day. For example, if you see a co-worker in the lounge you might say hello and discuss the sports or weather. However, the next time you see each other you might just smile and say nothing. If there is very little noise that might be an indication that it is the right time to initiate a casual conversation. You should only spark up a conversation after someone smiles and acknowledges you. Do not interrupt two people in order to discuss something unimportant such as the weather. If someone is reading a book or writing a letter at the bus stop it is not appropriate to initiate a conversation either. Another good time to make small talk is during a break in a meeting or presentation when there is nothing important going on. Finally, it is important to recognize the cue when the other person wants the conversation to stop.
The most common time for small talk to occur is the first time you see or meet someone on a given day. For example, if you see a co-worker in the lounge you might say hello and discuss the sports or weather. However, the next time you see each other you might just smile and say nothing. If there is very little noise that might be an indication that it is the right time to initiate a casual conversation. You should only spark up a conversation after someone smiles and acknowledges you. Do not interrupt two people in order to discuss something unimportant such as the weather. If someone is reading a book or writing a letter at the bus stop it is not appropriate to initiate a conversation either. Another good time to make small talk is during a break in a meeting or presentation when there is nothing important going on. Finally, it is important to recognize the cue when the other person wants the conversation to stop.
WHY do people make small talk?
There are a few different reasons why people use small talk. The first, and most obvious, is to break an uncomfortable silence. Another reason, however, is simply to fill time. That is why it is so common to make small talk when you are waiting for something. Some people make small talk in order to be polite. You may not feel like chatting with anyone at a party, but it is rude to just sit in a corner by yourself. After someone introduces you to another person, you do not know anything about them, so in order to show a polite interest in getting to know them better, you have to start with some small talk.
There are a few different reasons why people use small talk. The first, and most obvious, is to break an uncomfortable silence. Another reason, however, is simply to fill time. That is why it is so common to make small talk when you are waiting for something. Some people make small talk in order to be polite. You may not feel like chatting with anyone at a party, but it is rude to just sit in a corner by yourself. After someone introduces you to another person, you do not know anything about them, so in order to show a polite interest in getting to know them better, you have to start with some small talk.
Conversation Starters
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Talking about the weather
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Talking
about current events
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At the
office
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At a
social event
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Out for
a walk
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Waiting
somewhere
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Small Talk Practice 1: At a Bus Stop
Read the small talk below and find the 10 mistakes.
Then check your answers.Woman: We could ask for a better day, could we?
Man: I know. There isn't a cloud in the sky. I love this time of year.
Woman: Me too. The cherry blossoms are beautiful, you think?
Man: They sure are. But I heard he is calling for rain all weekend.
Woman: Really? Oh well. I have to work all weekend anyway. I'm a doctor.
Man: Wow. I'm sure you make good money with that diamond watch you have on.
Woman: Ah, this bus seems to be running late. How long of a wait is it already?
Man: I've been here for at least fifteen minutes now.
Woman: Where are you heading today?
Man: Actually, I'm going to the City Hall to cast my vote for mayor.
Woman: Oh, what a coincidence. So am I! Who are you voting for?
Man: Um, well...I'm still thinking about it.
Woman: Here comes a bus now.
Man: Oh good. Wait, that's not the bus we want. That bus goes downtown.
Woman: Well, it looks like we'll be waiting a little longer. I guess, I'll use this time to catch up on my reading.
Man: I love reading. Right now I'm reading a Stephen King book. Do you like Stephen King?
Woman: Not really.
Man: Oh, here's our bus.
Woman: Oh great. I thought it would never come. Well, have a nice day.
Man: Say, did you catch the news today?
1.
Woman: We could ask for a better day, could we?
Correction: We couldn't ask for a better day, could we?
2.
Woman: Me too. The cherry blossoms are beautiful, you think?
Correction: Me too. The cherry blossoms are beautiful, aren't they?
3.
Man: They sure are. But I heard he is calling for rain all weekend.
Correction: They sure are. But I heard they are calling for rain all weekend.
4.
Woman: Really? Oh well. I have to work all weekend anyway. I'm a doctor.
Correction: During small talk with a stranger, it is not common to discuss personal information relating to work.
5.
Man: Wow. I'm sure you make good money with that diamond watch you have on.
Correction: It is not acceptable to discuss salaries while making small talk.
6.
Woman: Ah, this bus seems to be running late. How long of a wait is it already?
Correction: Ah, this bus seems to be running late. How long have you been waiting?
7.
Woman: Where are you heading today?
Correction: Too personal.
8.
Woman: Oh, what a coincidence. So am I! Who are you voting for?
Correction: Politics is not a "safe" subject to discuss.
9.
Man: I love reading. Right now I'm reading a Stephen King book. Do you like Stephen King?
Correction: The woman suggested that she wanted to end the conversation. The man did not take the hint.
10.
Man: Say, did you catch the news today?Correction: Thanks. You too. This is not an appropriate time to start a new conversation. The bus's arrival indicates that it is time to stop talking.
Small Talk Practice 2: At the Office
Read the small talk below and find the 10 mistakes.
Then check your answers.Woman: Hi there.
Man: Hi. I haven't seen you around here before. Have you been working long?
Woman: No, I've only been here a few months. I work in the Human Resources Department.
Man: Oh, you must make more money than I do then. I'm in Sales.
Woman: Sales sounds like an interesting job.
Man: It's okay. Hey, you look like you could really have a coffee.
Woman: Yes, it's been a really hectic week.
Man: Tell me about it! At least it's supposing to be a nice weekend.
Woman: Yes, I've listened that they are calling for blue skies.
Man: Say, did you happen to catch the game last night?
Woman: No, I was working late.
Man: It was a great game. We won in overtime.
Woman: Actually, I don't even know who was playing. I don't really follow sports.
Man: The Chiefs! Do you think they're going to make it to the finals this year?
Woman: I'm not sure. Well, I better get back to my desk.
Man: Speaking of desks, what do you think of the new office furniture?
Woman: It's nice, but I would rather get paid for my overtime hours than have new furniture.
Man: Oh. Well, I think I'll be heading home early today. It might be snow.
Woman: I know. I can't believe all of this cold weather. Hopefully Spring will come soon.
Man: I can't wait until Spring.
Woman: Me neither! My divorce will finally come through by then!
1.
Man: Hi. I haven't seen you around here before. Have you been working long?
Correction: I haven't seen you around here before. Have you worked here long?
2.
Man: Oh, you must make more money than I do then. I'm in Sales.
Correction: Oh, that must be why I haven't seen you around. I'm in Sales.
It is inappropriate to discuss how much people make in an office during small talk.
3.
Man: It's okay. Hey, you look like you could really have a coffee.
Correction: It's okay. Hey, you look like you could really use a coffee.
4.
Man: Tell me about it! At least it's supposing to be a nice weekend.
Correction: Tell me about it! At least it's supposed to be a nice weekend.
5.
Woman: Yes, I've listened that they are calling for blue skies.
Correction: Yes, I've heard that they are calling for blue skies.
6.
Man: The Chiefs! Do you think they're going to make it to the finals this year?
Correction: The man should not continue with this subject because the woman is obviously not interested in it.
7.
Man: Speaking of desks, what do you think of the new office furniture?
Correction: The man did not take the cue that the woman wants to end the conversation.
8.
Woman: It's nice, but I would rather get paid for my overtime hours than have new furniture.
Correction: Giving your opinion about a controversial subject is not appropriate when making small talk with someone you don't know or trust.
9.
Man: Oh. Well, I think I'll be heading home early today. It might be snow.
Correction: Oh. Well, I think I'll be heading home early today. It looks like it might snow.
10.
Man: Me neither! My divorce will finally come through by then!
Correction: Private information about one's personal life is not acceptable.
Small Talk Practice 3: At a Party
Read the small talk below and find the 10 mistakes.
Then check your answers.Woman 1: (Standing in a corner drinking a glass of wine by herself)
Man: Hi there. Why aren't you dancing?
Woman 1: (Smiles. No response.)
Man: Hello. Have you tried Felicia's punch yet?
Woman 2: No, but I was just about to.
Man: Don't. It's terrible.
Woman 2: Oh. Okay.
Man: So, how are you knowing Rick?
Woman 2: Oh, Rick and I go way back. We studied nursing together.
Man: Nursing. Hmm. I heard on the radio today that all of you nurses are on strike. Are they not paying you enough?
Woman 2: Actually it's about working conditions.
Man: I see. So, have you had a chance to take a dip in the pool yet?
Woman 2: No, not yet. How about you?
Man: No, I need to lose some weight before I put on a bathing suit. But you have a great figure.
Woman 2: Uh, thanks. Well, I better go and jingle. There are a few people I haven't said hello to yet.
Man: Wait! Did you hear that the Pope is coming to town?
Woman 2: Ya. I heard that on the news today. I bet it'll be really tough to get to see him.
Man: I know. But I'm not Catholic anyway. Are you?
Woman 2: Yes, I am actually. Well, it looks the sun is finally coming out. I think I'll go take that swim.
Man: You better hurry. I hear they are asking for thunderstorms this afternoon.
1.
Woman 1: (Smiles. No response.)
Correction: It is rude not to say anything or answer someone, even if you are shy or don't know the person.
2.
Man: Don't. It's terrible.
Correction: Keep negative comments out of your small talk. You don't know if the person you are talking about is a close friend of the person you are talking to.
3.
Man: So, how are you knowing Rick?
Correction: So, how do you know Rick?
4.
Man: Nursing. Hmm. I heard on the radio today that all of you nurses are on strike. Are they not paying you enough?
Correction: During small talk it is not appropriate to discuss salaries.
5.
Man: No, I need to lose some weight before I put on a bathing suit. But you have a great figure.
Correction: Even though this is a compliment, it may make someone feel uncomfortable. Complimenting clothing is acceptable for small talk, but bodies are not a "safe" topic.
6.
Woman 2: Uh, thanks. Well, I better go and jingle. There are a few people I haven't said hello to yet.
Correction: Uh, thanks. Well, I better go and mingle. There are a few people I haven't said hello to yet.
7.
Man: Wait! Did you hear that the Pope is coming to town?
Correction: The man did not take the cue that the woman wants to end the conversation. "Wait" is a very direct word that should never be used in small talk. You could say, "Oh, before you go..." or "I don't want to keep you, but..." if you have something very important to add or ask.
8.
Man: I know. But I'm not Catholic anyway. Are you?
Correction: Religion is not a "safe" subject to discuss during small talk.
9.
Woman 2: Yes, I am actually. Well, it looks the sun is finally coming out. I think I'll go take that swim.
Correction:Yes, I am actually. Well, it looks like the sun is finally coming out. I think I'll go take that swim.
10.
Man: You'd better hurry. I hear they are asking for thunderstorms this afternoon.
Correction: You'd better hurry. I hear they are calling for thunderstorms this afternoon.
Dialect and its types
Dialect
Definition: A regional or social variety of a language distinguished by pronunciation, grammar, or vocabulary, especially a way of speaking that differs from the standard variety of the language. Adjective: dialectal.
The scientific study of dialects is known as dialectology, commonly regarded as a subfield of sociolinguistics.
What Is a Dialect?
"To a linguist, no dialect is inherently better or worse than any
other"
One common myth
about language
is that a dialect is always somebody else's peculiar way of speaking,
never our own.But the truth is, everybody speaks a dialect (or a lect, as some linguists would have it). It may be standard or nonstandard, urban or rural, but it's a distinctive form of the language all the same--a variety of the mother tongue that most of us learned in early childhood. To a linguist, no dialect is inherently better or worse than any other.
The same goes for accents--though accents and dialects aren't quite the same. Your accent is simply the way you pronounce words. A dialect involves vocabulary and grammar as well as pronunciation. And dialects come in various overlapping shapes and sizes.
There are national dialects, such as American English, Irish English, and Philippine English. There are also regional dialects, spoken in specific areas of a country; social dialects (or sociolects), associated with certain classes or occupational groups; and ethnic dialects, commonly used by members of a particular ethnic group.
Finally, there's the language variety unique to each individual speaker. That's called an idiolect.
So in that sense, it's true that we all speak different dialects of the same language. What's remarkable is that we understand one another as well as we do (something linguists call mutual intelligibility).
Of course, sometimes--like the legendary Englishman, Scotsman, and Irishman at the bar--it may take a few drinks to facilitate communication.
Regional dialect
Definition: The distinct form of a language spoken in a certain geographical area.
If the form of speech transmitted from a parent to a child is a distinct regional dialect, that dialect is said to be the child's vernacular.
Lexical variation
“ happen
she
were wearing
a mask
”
The use of happen here meaning ‘perhaps’ or ‘maybe’ is an example of lexical
variation — differences in vocabulary. It probably locates the speaker
somewhere in an area centred on the Pennines: Yorkshire or Lancashire or
adjacent areas of the East Midlands. The popular image of dialect speech tends
to focus almost exclusively on dialect vocabulary and although there was at one
time greater regional variation in vocabulary across the UK, there remains a
great deal of lexical diversity.
Phonological variation
“ happen
she
were wearing
a mask
”
The pronunciation of the word mask here could be very
revealing. A well-known difference in British accents is the distinction
between speakers in the north and south. Those in the north generally pronounce
words such as bath, grass
and dance with a short
vowel — rather like the vowel in the word cat. Those
in the south use a long vowel, rather like the sound you make when the doctor
examines your throat. So you can immediately deduce something about a person
who pronounces baths to rhyme with maths
or pass to rhyme with mass.
Grammatical variation
“ happen
she
were wearing
a mask
”
Grammar is the structure of a language or dialect. It describes the way
individual words change their form, such as when play
becomes played, to indicate an event in past time. It also
refers to the way words are combined to form phrases or sentences. The
construction she were
wearing a mask might sound unusual to some ears, but in some
dialects in northern England and the Midlands, many speakers indicate the past
tense of ‘to be’ by saying I were, you
were, he, she
and it were, we were and
they were. This means the verb is unmarked
for person, while speakers of Standard English differentiate by
using I was and he, she
and it was. Some dialects, perhaps particularly those in
the South East of England, favour a similarly unmarked version using the
singular form of the verb I was, you
was, he, she
and it was, we was and they
was.
Social Variation
“ maybe
she
was wearing
a cap
”
This statement, if pronounced without an obvious regional accent, appears to
reveal little about the speaker — certainly in terms of his regional origins.
But the pronunciation of the final consonant in the word wearing
might reveal a great deal about a speaker’s social background or the context in
which he is speaking. Most people either use the <n> sound in finger,
or they use the <n> sound in fin.
In popular writing, the latter pronunciation is often transcribed as wearin’
and this usually conveys the sense that the speaker is either from a lower
socio-economic group or is speaking in an informal situation.
Making speech fit the situation
All native speakers adjust their speech patterns depending on context: from
relaxed conversation in familiar surroundings to a more formal setting. Most of
us have been accused of having a ‘telephone voice’. We all have a range of
different voices — for talking to children, talking to friends in the pub,
making a presentation or talking to a foreigner and we modify our speech
accordingly. In most cases, the changes we make are extremely subtle but
nonetheless noticeable, and a perfectly natural way of making the people we are
talking to feel at ease. Often this process is subconscious and we are simply
expressing a shared identity or group solidarity or attempting to present a
certain image. However, the range of any given speaker’s repertoire is defined
by who he or she is. People from different geographical places speak
differently, but even within the same small community, people might speak
differently according to their age, gender, ethnicity and social or educational
background.Superior-subordinate communication
Superior-subordinate
communication
In an organization communication occurs
between members of different hierarchical positions. Superior-subordinate
communication refers to the interactions between organizational leaders and
their subordinates and how they work together to achieve personal and
organizational goals. Satisfactory upward and downward communication is
essential for a successful organization because it closes the gap between
superior and subordinates by increasing the levels of trust, support, and the
frequency of their interactions.
Downward Communication
In a workplace environment, orders being given from superiors to
subordinates is the most basic form of downward communication. These are
usually done via manuals and handbooks, oral communication, and/or written
orders. Two other forms of downward communication are when a customer gives
orders to a supplier and when shareholders instruct management
to do certain things.In a study conducted by John Anderson and Dale Level, the following were cited to be benefits of effective downward communication:
- Better
coordination
- Improved
individual performance through the development of intelligent
participation
- Improved
morale
- Improved
consumer relations
- Improved
industrial relations.
Upward Communication
Upward communication is the
process of transmitting information from the bottom levels of an organization
to the top levels. It includes judgments, estimations, propositions, complaints,
grievance, appeals, reports, etc. from subordinates to superiors. It is very
important because it serves as the response on the success of downward
communication. Management comes to know how
well its policies, plans, strategies and objectives are adopted by those
working at lower levels of the organization.
Upward information flow can be very beneficial for an
organization, especially when it is encouraged by the management. When a
manager is open to upward communication, they help foster cooperation, gain
support, and reduce frustration.The channel of communication is a very significant variable in the upward communication process. Channel refers to the means of which messages are transported. It can be face-to-face, over the telephone, written, etc. Communication channel affects subordinate's overall satisfaction with upward communication. Certain channels are easily ignored, which can leave subordinates less satisfied with upward communication. A subordinate who is satisfied with his/her upward communication will be less apprehensive about communicating upward than a subordinate who is unsatisfied with his/her upward communication.
Openness in Communication
Employees who have an open communication with their superiors have been
found to be more satisfied with their jobs than those who do not have this.
Openness in communication requires both openness in message sending and
openness in message receiving between superiors and subordinates.Achieving
openness in message sending requires complete honesty whether the news is good
or bad. Certain types of messages facilitate open communication better.
Supervisory messages are preferable for both superiors and subordinates when
they are encouraging or reciprocating, rather than responses that are either
neutral or negative. Openness in message receiving requires a willingness to
listen to the message without jumping to conclusions even when the message is
not what you wanted to hear. An open communication relationship differs from a
closed by the reactions and types of feedback given, not the message itself.
Subordinates in a closed communication relationship with their superior are
more likely to respond negatively to the superior's feedback than those who
have more open communication with their superior.
Relationship Maintenance
Maintaining the relationship between superior and subordinate will differ
greatly, depending on the expectations of the individual parties. Some will
settle for nothing less than a close friendship with their superior, others may
be just focused on maintaining a professional relationship, while those may not
get along with their superiors may be focused on just maintaining a civil
relationship. The unusual relationship between superior and subordinates
requires specific maintenance strategies since some typical ones, like
avoidance, are unacceptable. There are four common types of relationship
maintenance strategies for this variation of relationship. First there are
informal interactions, such as joking and non-work related conversations that
emphasize creating a friendship. There are also formal interactions, such as
politeness and respect for the superior's authority, that help to create a
professional superior-subordinate relationship. There are also tactics to
appear impressive to the superior, such as a hesitancy to deliver bad news or
being enthusiastic. The final relationship maintenance strategy includes open
discussion about the relationship with the superior, including explicitly
telling them how they want to be treated in the workplace.
Superior-subordinate Communication definition
Superior-subordinate communication
is communication between a manager and those who directly report to the
manager.
Studies of superior-subordinate
communication are concerned with ensuring communication channels are open,
making sure that information is communicated in a respectful way and
strengthening the superior-subordinate relationship while achieving
organisational goals.
Superior-subordinate communication
includes two types of communication: downward communication, of which
shareholders instructing management is another example, and upward communication,
which is the flow of information from employees to senior management and
shareholders.
Superior-subordinate communication
has the potential to both strengthen and severely undermine organisational
structure, employee engagement and internal innovation. Relationship building is an
important part of ensuring effective and transparent superior-subordinate
communications.
From the subordinate’s point of
view, perceptions of organisational justice are key – the channels of communication and the way
comments and ideas are handled will inform these perceptions. If the employee
thinks they are being treated unfairly or that the superior is untrustworthy or
authoritarian, this can lead to disengagement and in some cases workplace deviance.
How to
Improve Communication Between Superiors & Subordinate
Anyone who's worked in an environment where there's poor communication between
supervisors and employees knows how miserable the workplace can be. Supervisors
may not understand how their employees feel or what they're going through, and
employees may not have a clear idea of what's expected of them or how they're
viewed by senior staff. While communication works both ways, it is without a
doubt the boss's job to build and maintain those roads to communication.
Opening clear lines of communication and building rapport with staff can
improve the productivity of the entire organization.
Relationship First
Relationship First
·
As a supervisor, you should focus on the
relationship first and the specific employee second. This means working toward
clear and open lines of communication with all of your subordinates, regardless
of who they are. The goal here is to reduce your personal interest in the
employee, avoid favoritism and increase your interest in getting feedback on
work-related issues. Treat each employee the same by engaging with all of them
on a regular basis, listening to their concerns and ideas, and providing
guidance on how they can optimize their performances.
Encourage Feedback
·
While it usually isn't difficult for a
supervisor to tell employees what he expects of them, getting communication to
flow back up the channel is a different matter altogether. Many employees
refrain from speaking up for a variety of reasons, including insecurity and not
wanting to interrupt management's daily activities. However, for communication
to be effective, it has to be a two-way street. As a supervisor, you must
encourage employees to share how they feel about the company, both positive and
negative. It is also important to listen to their suggestions on how to improve
their performances and the performance of the department or organization as a
whole. Likewise, as an employee, you should ask your boss for feedback on your
performance and what you can do to improve it. You may think he's happy with
you, but he may be keeping silent about an important issue.
Group Conferences
·
Arranging group conferences between supervisors
and employees is a good way to share thoughts, ideas and concerns. This way,
both management and staff can work as a team as you strive to meet a business
goal. This is also the time for supervisors to ask employees about the work
that goes into their jobs, and the time and energy spent on each task. As a
supervisor, ask questions and create "what if" situations to
encourage idea sharing. As an employee, don't shy away from sharing mistakes or
obstacles, and ask for help or advice. Supervisors like to see that employees
are engaged and eager to learn.
Provide Positive Reinforcement
·
Give credit where credit is due. Ignoring
achievements -- while at the same time nailing employees for their mistakes --
results in lower morale and productivity. As a supervisor, pay attention when
an employee is doing a good job, even if it's a small task, and offer praise
when it is merited. Likewise, employees who are fortunate enough to have a
great supervisor should thank him for what he does for you and your fellow
workers. Finally, don't engage in office gossip or talk negatively about others
behind their backs. This is not only poor form, you also run the risk that your
negative talk will come back to haunt you should your words become public
knowledge throughout the department or company.
Business communication - Introduction, definition. good manners and etiquettes
Business
communication - introduction
The sharing of
information between people within an organisation that is performed for the
commercial benefit of an organisation; relays information within a business; or functions as an official
statement from a company.
Definition
The sharing of information between
people within an enterprise that is performed for the commercial benefit of the
organization. In addition, business communication can also refer to how a
company shares information to promote its product or services to potential
consumers.
TYPES
*****************************************************************
Good Manners and Etiquette
“The
rules of good manners are the traffic lights of human interaction. They make it
so that we don’t crash into one another in everyday behavior."
Manners represent your inner self,
whereas etiquette is what and how you portray yourself to the public. One
represents your way of acting, and the other is how you treat others. They
touch every aspect of our lives, and have been ingrained in our minds since we
were children.
Saying 'Please' and 'Thank You', or common courtesies like holding a door for someone, or offering your seat to an elderly or disabled person, are some basic manners that we all practice. They make you feel good. The question arises as to why are manners and etiquette so important in our lives? We have tried to answer this question in this Buzzle article.
They Help you Earn Respect
The way you behave and conduct yourself mirrors your personality. Your eye-contact, the way you greet others, and most importantly, your smile, are the first things people will notice about you. Manners define your character and influence your attitude as well as the way you treat other people, be it your superiors, peers, or inferiors. The Golden Rule states, 'Treat others the way you want them to treat you.' Good manners and etiquette help you earn respect. Rude and offensive behavior does not go down well with anyone. And as they say, 'respect given is respect earned'. Hence, if you treat others with respect and acknowledge them, you are most likely to be respected, trusted, and cared for.
They Charm Your Personality
Good manners and etiquette embellish your personality. They add extra charm which will go a long way in portraying you as an individual. Remember, manners need to be acquired and adapted. I am sure you followed your parents; the same way your children will try and imitate you to the core. So, learning and inculcating good manners will help create a positive impression on others.
Saying 'Please' and 'Thank You', or common courtesies like holding a door for someone, or offering your seat to an elderly or disabled person, are some basic manners that we all practice. They make you feel good. The question arises as to why are manners and etiquette so important in our lives? We have tried to answer this question in this Buzzle article.
They Help you Earn Respect
The way you behave and conduct yourself mirrors your personality. Your eye-contact, the way you greet others, and most importantly, your smile, are the first things people will notice about you. Manners define your character and influence your attitude as well as the way you treat other people, be it your superiors, peers, or inferiors. The Golden Rule states, 'Treat others the way you want them to treat you.' Good manners and etiquette help you earn respect. Rude and offensive behavior does not go down well with anyone. And as they say, 'respect given is respect earned'. Hence, if you treat others with respect and acknowledge them, you are most likely to be respected, trusted, and cared for.
They Charm Your Personality
Good manners and etiquette embellish your personality. They add extra charm which will go a long way in portraying you as an individual. Remember, manners need to be acquired and adapted. I am sure you followed your parents; the same way your children will try and imitate you to the core. So, learning and inculcating good manners will help create a positive impression on others.
They Make Relationships Smoother
Good manners help you swallow your pride and reach out to others. You are more considerate of the feelings and emotions of others. Good manners teach you to be polite. Even if someone behaves rudely with you, your manners and etiquette will stop you from over-reacting. You have better control over your emotions. Hence, you teach people how to treat and interact with you. These manners and etiquette will govern the way you act and react to situations in your life. People will think highly of you, and it will make your relationships easier.
They Increase Your Confidence
Practicing good manners makes you more confident, and increases awareness of your surroundings. They act as a magnet and draw people towards you. Being sympathetic towards others, and not making fun of the weaknesses or deformities of others will take you a long way in life. Your attitude and confidence will determine the way you look at things and react to particular situations. These come from the practice of good manners and etiquette, which are the stepping stones of success in life.
They Keep You Motivated and Happy
Manners, etiquette, wisdom, virtue, knowledge, and intelligence are accepted and appreciated universally. Being kind and generous towards other people, and maintaining a calm and composed stature even in bad situations, helps earn respect. It is impressive behavior that will please others and help gain respect. Good manners and etiquette give constant happiness to your own self, and help gain self-respect. They constantly keep you motivated.
They Impart Strength to Digest Failure
Failure is what many are unable to digest easily, be it on the personal or professional front. Good manners and etiquette gives you the strength to accept any kind of failure. It keeps you positively motivated to face rough weather. It is never easy to accept defeat or face the struggles in life. There are situations which test your patience, or try to bring you down. However, your manners and their positive attributes will help maintain your posture and turn the tide in your favor.
Remember, everyone observes you, and in this globalization era, you not only represent your family, but your community and nation as well. So, behave accordingly, and try and inculcate good manners and etiquette in your daily life as they are very important in the long run. They are crucial in maintaining your family, social, and professional circle. Besides, your demeanor will pave the way for living a beautiful life.
Good manners help you swallow your pride and reach out to others. You are more considerate of the feelings and emotions of others. Good manners teach you to be polite. Even if someone behaves rudely with you, your manners and etiquette will stop you from over-reacting. You have better control over your emotions. Hence, you teach people how to treat and interact with you. These manners and etiquette will govern the way you act and react to situations in your life. People will think highly of you, and it will make your relationships easier.
They Increase Your Confidence
Practicing good manners makes you more confident, and increases awareness of your surroundings. They act as a magnet and draw people towards you. Being sympathetic towards others, and not making fun of the weaknesses or deformities of others will take you a long way in life. Your attitude and confidence will determine the way you look at things and react to particular situations. These come from the practice of good manners and etiquette, which are the stepping stones of success in life.
They Keep You Motivated and Happy
Manners, etiquette, wisdom, virtue, knowledge, and intelligence are accepted and appreciated universally. Being kind and generous towards other people, and maintaining a calm and composed stature even in bad situations, helps earn respect. It is impressive behavior that will please others and help gain respect. Good manners and etiquette give constant happiness to your own self, and help gain self-respect. They constantly keep you motivated.
They Impart Strength to Digest Failure
Failure is what many are unable to digest easily, be it on the personal or professional front. Good manners and etiquette gives you the strength to accept any kind of failure. It keeps you positively motivated to face rough weather. It is never easy to accept defeat or face the struggles in life. There are situations which test your patience, or try to bring you down. However, your manners and their positive attributes will help maintain your posture and turn the tide in your favor.
Remember, everyone observes you, and in this globalization era, you not only represent your family, but your community and nation as well. So, behave accordingly, and try and inculcate good manners and etiquette in your daily life as they are very important in the long run. They are crucial in maintaining your family, social, and professional circle. Besides, your demeanor will pave the way for living a beautiful life.
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