The importance of good communications

Effective communication is essential for all organizations. It links the activities of the various parts of the organisation and ensures that everyone is working^(e) towards a common goal. It is also extremely important for motivating employees. Staff need to know how they are getting on, what they are doing right and in which areas they could improve. Working alone^(e) can be extremely difficult and it is much easier if someone takes an interest and provides support. Employees need to understand why their job is important and how it contributes to the overall success of the firm. Personal communication should also include target setting. People usually respond well to goals, provided these are agreed between the manager and the subordinate and not imposed.
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The use of technology, such as e-mail, mobile phones and network systems, is speeding up communication immensely. However, this does not mean that more investment in technology automatically proves beneficial: systems can become outdated or employees may lack appropriate training. There are many communications tools now available but a firm cannot afford all of them. Even if it could, it does not actually need them all. The potential gains must^(d) be weighed up against the costs, and firms should^(d) realise that more communication does not necessarily mean better communication.

UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE. Business English Certificates Handbook. Cambridge: UCLES, 2001. p. 46. [Adapted]