We simply cannot avoid communicating. We all know this, and yet misunderstandings caused by unclear communication keep cropping up in everyday business life, with consequences ranging from minor to major. So how do we use communication correctly to ensure it is effective, impactful, and gets to the point?

The integrated management systems (IMS) pose a particular challenge, as they bring together various management systems—and often different officers—with overlapping responsibilities. Dr. Birgit Wetzel, a communication trainer and business coach, presented approaches at our 17th IMS Breakfast on how to successfully implement transparent and respectful communication within the IMS. How can this be achieved? Through clear language, well-defined job descriptions, and communication that is positive, keeps the concerns of all stakeholders in mind, and is based on “I” messages and respect. At the same time, she “urged” everyone to take personal responsibility for the content of their conversations and for how that content is received by others.

Through various exercises, the breakfast participants were able to see how quickly language can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and demotivation. Dr. Wetzel highlighted solution strategies that help ensure the concerns of all conversation participants are given equal consideration, thereby enabling cooperation on an equal footing. While the content of the IMS breakfast provided plenty to discuss, a few additional highlights emerged along the way. The online format, chosen once again this time, allowed not only our regional practice partners to participate but also those companies that would otherwise be unable to attend the in-person event. As a result, we were able to welcome 38 participants. And there was yet another bonus: The IMS Breakfast also serves as a platform for connecting with companies and, for example, receiving information about available internship positions. Just how successful this can be was immediately demonstrated: A single student’s inquiry resulted in five offers right away. That’s what we call effective communication.

Text: M.Sc. Sandra Franke