Okay, I’ll admit that this is an area I am still working on. With three jobs, two kids, a husband who travels, a music career and volunteer work to squeeze into each day, it is difficult to take the time to keep everyone in the know that needs to be. I’m sure that I’m not the only one striving to improve. The challenge has become all too familiar in our busy lives. It is an important issue, however, since excellent communication within any team yields positive results. Those teams of coworkers and leaders who communicate effectively and efficiently are often the ones who excel in their fields while those who isolate from each other frequently flounder.

Below are some tips, gathered from communication experts, that can guide us all to better communication, teamwork and, thereby, productivity.

• Don’t assume. Being told twice is better than not being informed at all. Don’t assume everyone in the office knows all of the same work-related information. Even if every team member listened to the same presentation or conversation, they may not have each interpreted or recalled the data in the same way.

• Be inclusive. Before initiating any communication or taking any significant action, consider the individuals or departments that might be impacted or may need to be informed. Then follow through by being inclusive of those particular co-workers.

• Be courteous. Showing respect, being considerate of time and using good manners go a long way in building solid relationships and demonstrating recognition of the other person’s value and efforts.

• Listen more, talk less. Dominating a conversation is a sure way to miss out on the ideas of others. By listening more intently and striving to understand the full meaning of what others are saying, you can be better informed and can add more productive comments to the discussion.

• Rehearse. Before rushing into confrontations or landing on a conclusion about someone else’s opinions or intentions, rehearse your thoughts. Sometimes a message that seemed to capture your frustration precisely can sound a little petty on a second read through.

• Ask. When in doubt, ask. People forget sometimes that you may not have been present for certain discussions; and, let’s face it, sometimes we forget even if we were there. Asking is always better than moving on without all of the information you need.

• Be professional. From spell checking to proper grammar to adequate pre-meeting research and office-appropriate attire, professionalism both gains and demonstrates respect.