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This Clear Language Lab webinar took place on November 17, 2023 as part of the Plain Language Foundations series. Check out the notes below, or access the webinar recording and slides.
Key Points
Effective communication at work means:
People have the information they need to do their job
There are clear and easy ways to get information if we don’t already have what we need
Expectations for tasks and responsibility are explicitly explained
Communication loops are closed
Everyone benefits from clear, concise, relevant, and actionable information
Communication practices have a significant impact on worker satisfaction and performance
Topic Specific Tips
In general
Avoid information overload by breaking information into sections or chunks with a descriptive heading
Include internal communication expectations in your style guides and onboarding materials
When making requests, be specific about what you need and when you need it
When giving instructions
Break large tasks into more bite-sized sections (3-5 steps max)
Use numbers to show the order of steps
Include the “why”
When communicating by email
Provide appropriate background information
Limit information to 1-2 topics or requests
Use a specific and descriptive subject
Close the loop
If you need time to gather information before responding to questions, tell them that
Confirm receipt of direct messages, even if there isn’t a specific request
When giving feedback
Allow people to “opt-in”
Use specific data and examples
Explain the impact
Make it a conversation
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