Various workplace environmental factors can adversely impact communication between team members and, thus, the overall success of the project. In particular, relationships between employees and management, insufficient training, and the use of technology have a negative influence on communication (Blazey & Grizzell, 2021). These environmental factors might contribute to misunderstandings and tension among the staff, which affects the team’s adherence to guidelines and deadlines set for the project.
Trustful and positive relationships between employees and management are pivotal for open and transparent communication. When workers and supervisors share common values such as mutual respect, integrity, and support, they have higher chances to cooperate effectively and work towards achieving the project’s goals (Blazey & Grizzell, 2021). In contrast, poor employee-management relationships contribute to a lack of trust and miscommunication, which decreases overall project productivity. Similarly, insufficient training can aggravate communication among employees since they would not have the required skills and knowledge of the company’s processes and procedures (Blazey & Grizzell, 2021). As a result, poor cooperation can increase delays, tension, and the number of errors. Finally, the use of technology is another workplace environmental factor that can adversely impact communication. For instance, the implementation of technology increases the risks of privacy issues and dehumanization (Blazey & Grizzell, 2021). The need to protect sensitive data can cause delays in the exchange of information among employees, while dehumanization can decrease motivation and promote the exclusionary behavior of the team members.
My own communication bias can affect project communication by altering my approach to decision-making. In particular, stereotypes might cause false feelings and negative opinions of other team members, which aggravates transparency and trust. If I misread one’s body language or facial expressions, it might impact my perception of this person and decisions associated with their ideas or suggestions. Overall, implicit bias prevents inclusive communication and endangers the positive outcomes of the project.
Reference
Blazey, M. L., & Grizzell, P. L. (2021). Insights to performance excellence 2021-2022: Using the Baldrige framework and other integrated management systems. Quality Press.