Be cautious of the way you speak and how you carry yourself so that any values you upheld are aligned with the work ethics.
Did you know that nonverbal communication is more valued than verbal communication in the workplace? As human beings, communication is fundamental to the delivery and reception of information.
Whether outside or at work, communication is not just about talking but it also requires ethics. What does ethics mean? Ethics means norms, values or measures of good behaviour that occurs as a guide and human standard in reacting and behaving.
Communication ethics includes all values and norms that become the standard reference in communicating with others. It also evaluates which communication action is good or bad based on the prevailing standards.
1. Speak Politely
When we want to speak, we must be fully conscious. Conscious does not mean literate and living, but conscious of the way we speak. This includes the tone of our voice.
Our tone of voice when speaking actually plays a role. When the tone is high, many people will misunderstand and easily feel offended. It’s different if we talk to people who have hearing issues..
When the tone of voice is too low, as if whispering, the message could lead to a misunderstanding which can interfere with the quality of work.
So this is how it is, when two parties are talking, make sure to use the same tone so that communication is smoother and clearer. Avoid offending others. However, if one party raises his voice, the other party must remain calm and explain the situation so that his anger subsides.
2. Use Polite Language
Who said you’d have to raise your voice when you are angry? Isn’t it supposed to be part of your personality? Even when you’re overwhelmed with emotions, take a deep breath and think sensibly. It will help to organise your facts and words so that the meaning of the argument gets across clearly.
Regardless of who we chat or talk to, always be courteous so that others will reciprocate the same. Therefore, when we start a conversation or discussion, it is good to use polite language. Anyone who listens feels happy and comfortable to continue the discussion.
The same goes for company superiors and colleagues. Even if it is, chatting with the cleaning workers in the area around the office, we should always mind our tone and words. It does not necessarily mean we want to be looked up to or respected. At the very least, when in need of help, we won’t be in an awkward position to ask for it.
3. Communication Media
The current trend of working is either working from home or working in the office. No matter where we work, communication will continue. The difference is the medium of such communication.
While working in the office, we find it easy to communicate in person or at least using email or phone. However, the passage of time is moving faster and now many organisations are more comfortable using messaging apps like Whatsapp whether for official announcements or not.
Due to pandemic constraints, many organisations were forced to continue operations by working from home. Since then, many have now wisely used online applications to meet and discuss. However, to appreciate the time of a client or colleague, be sure to call or send a message in advance to express a desire to discuss through selected digital media.
4. Ethics of Remote Communication
Because many people still work from home, many meetings are held virtually. If we go to the office to prepare ourselves to meet clients or follow organisational procedures, the same behaviour is the same even if we work from home.
Just like meeting face to face, so is meeting virtually. Never leave the microphone unmute, fearing noises in the house are heard in a meeting. Mute your microphone during a virtual discussion or meeting. The camera also needs to be turned on to be able to see every attendance in the meeting. Do not leave the webcam without someone in front of it. It would be horrible to hear a voice without seeing a face.
The way we interact virtually should also be in line with work ethic. Sit up straight and pay attention. Speaking only when asked is better than interrupting while the other person is talking. At the very least, if you want to speak, make sure no one is speaking and interrupt by asking permission to express an opinion.
5. Practice Professionalism
When it comes to working from home, many families especially start complaining. In general, personal problems should not be discussed during work. Consciously or not, emotions from personal problems can carry over into work hours. It can disrupt focus and coworkers can be affected too.
Admittedly, staying too long at home can interfere with mental health, but train yourself to schedule time with family, self and work. Professionalism in the task let alone in communication will indirectly give a positive impact in daily life. That positive aura can also be spread to colleagues. So the workspace is in harmony with the right communication ethic.
In conclusion, practising proper communication ethics in the workplace is very important because it not only creates a harmonious atmosphere but also guarantees better quality of work.
