What Is the Importance of Team Communication?
Team communication is the messages that are sent and received within any group larger than two through verbal and nonverbal communication. Verbal communication is any message that is communicated with oral words while nonverbal communication is every other aspect that sends a message. For example, when the leader of the group makes an announcement, she will verbally communicate the instructions and then may walk by later to check up on the team. The walking by is nonverbal communication saying, "I'm watching."
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Benefits
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Without team communication there is confusion, misunderstandings and unhappy members. Group communication allows members to freely express themselves, and can provide accurate and comprehensive information. Communication in a team creates an environment of safety and security. When a group member feels the freedom to voice his opinion, he will feel safe in that group.
Significance
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Team communication is significant because it has the ability to either build the team or tear it down. When communication is absent or ineffective in a team, the team unity will suffer. There will be lack of vision, motivation and purpose for existing. Where there is effective group communication, the group operates with one mind, spirit and common goal.
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Misconceptions
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A misconception in group communication is that it is primarily verbal. In actuality, the nonverbal messages sent within the group can have a greater affect on the morale of the team. For example, if a leader communicates that she is pleased with the work performance but then turns around and overworks the team, the nonverbal message will overpower the verbal affirmation.
Considerations
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It is important to consider delegation in team communication. Every healthy organization knows how to delegate well. Using delegation in the communication process helps to get the message out faster and more efficiently. If one person is solely responsible to communicate with a team of 100, it can take a long time to spread a message and care for all the communication needs of the group. But if that same group was broken down into 10 smaller groups, the needs and communication are more manageable.
Function
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The function of team communication is to empower and inform the team with one vision and common goal. Team communication enables the members to be on the same side, which increases motivation and productivity.
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