Overcoming Barriers to Communication

Communication often breaks down—not because people aren’t trying, but because they don’t check, time, or frame their message carefully. In this article, we explore three key practices that help overcome common barriers in workplace communication.

1. Think Before You Speak

Start by asking yourself Rudyard Kipling’s “Six Honest Serving Men”: What, Why, When, How, Where, Who. These simple questions can make any message clearer and more relevant.

Takeaway: Kipling’s six questions help clarify your intent before you say a word.

2. Check for Understanding

Misunderstandings often happen because people assume their message was received as intended. To avoid this:

• Ask open-ended questions that invite feedback
• Avoid yes/no questions like "Did you get that?"
• Use prompts like "What’s your take on that?" or "How would you explain this to a colleague?"

Pro Tip: Use Kipling’s questions to frame your open-ended check-ins. It helps you uncover what people really heard—not just what you think you said.

Try this: Take the Listening Style Self-Assessment to explore your strengths and blind spots as a communicator.

Takeaway: Don’t assume understanding—check it gently and clearly.

3. Pitfalls to Avoid

As the Sender

• Don’t assume your message was heard or understood
• Avoid jargon or overly technical language
• Don’t distract with fidgeting or inconsistent tone
• Avoid sounding like you’re quizzing the other person

As the Receiver

• Don’t change the subject abruptly
• Don’t jump to conclusions—check if you’ve heard correctly
• Don’t focus only on minor details while missing the big picture
• Don’t mentally prepare your reply while someone’s still speaking
• Don’t “win” conversations—aim for mutual understanding

Takeaway: Most communication fails not from effort—but from assumptions.

Written by the TrainingCourseMaterial.com editorial team – specialists in professional development training content.