Young professionals need a range of different skills to succeed in the workplace. One of the most important is also the most basic: communication. Despite what industry you're in or whether you work on a large team or not, communication skills are required to work effectively with others.
Workers in the Millennial and Gen Z generations are still in the early stages of their careers and are coming into the workforce as technology has changed the way we communicate. What hasn’t changed, though, is how important effective communication is in moving an organization forward.
Young workers must leverage their knowledge of technology and their adaptability while improving their fundamental communication skills. The good news is that they know its importance: a 2017 study found that 57% of the Gen Z and Millennials surveyed believed that communication was a foundational skill in the workplace, and 45% wanted to improve their communication skills.
Gen Z and Millennials face unique challenges in improving their communication skills. They’re the most tech-savvy generations, and yet they often work in environments with older colleagues who may struggle with using technology. This can cause communication breakdowns and create tension between co-workers of different ages. Young professionals may also have trouble with using appropriate body language in face-to-face interactions or dislike talking on the phone since they have gotten used to interacting with others via text or chat.
The good news is that it is possible to improve your communication skills and enhance your ability to work with others. Making an effort to interact with as many people as possible to practice your small talk is one good habit to employ. You should also talk to your manager about communication expectations and ask for specific feedback or tips regularly. Don’t be afraid to ask for scripts if you need them!
For more about effective business communication in the workplace for young professionals, check out this infographic from Maryville University.
Learn more about Maryville University's online communication programs.
Janice Cooper is a data visualization specialist and data scientist who is always looking to share statistical information on culture, current events and marketing.
