We often think of communication as just the words we use, but it’s much more than that. It’s our tone, timing, body language, and the intention behind what we say. It’s also listening—really listening—to what’s being said, and what isn’t.

In today’s high-pressure work environments, it’s easy to fall into patterns of rushed updates, misunderstood messages, or silent frustrations. That’s why intentional, thoughtful communication is one of the most powerful leadership skills you can develop—and it’s often the missing piece in underperforming teams.

Why Communication Matters (The Data Speaks)

• According to Safe Work Australia, poor workplace communication is a leading contributor to psychological injury, including stress-related claims.

• A study by CommsBank in New Zealand found that 43% of employees feel their leaders fail to communicate effectively, leading to confusion and disengagement.

• Research by the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI) shows that effective internal communication is strongly correlated with higher job satisfaction, retention, and performance.

• In both Australia and New Zealand, Gallup research highlights that teams with high-quality communication experience 24% higher productivity and 27% less turnover.

What Gets in the Way?

Even with the best intentions, effective communication can be derailed by:

• Assumptions – assuming others “get it” without confirming

• Distractions – trying to multitask during important conversations

• Fear of conflict – avoiding feedback or tough topics

• Unclear expectations – not aligning on priorities, timelines, or roles

When these issues go unaddressed, they chip away at morale, performance, and trust. But they’re also fixable—with awareness and a few key habits.

Practical Shifts That Make a Big Difference

You don’t need a full communication strategy overhaul. Small changes in how you engage with your team can have outsized impact:

• Start with clarity. Be clear about purpose, timelines, and expectations. Leave less room for misinterpretation.

• Create a feedback-safe culture. Make it easy and emotionally safe for people to ask questions, raise issues, or offer ideas.

• Use ‘check-backs’. After giving an instruction or update, ask: “What are your key takeaways from this?” It helps confirm understanding.

• Practice active listening. Don’t listen to reply—listen to understand. Pause before responding.

• Tailor your style. Some people need detail. Others prefer quick bullet points. Adapting your style builds connection and clarity.

Leading by Example

As a leader or manager, your communication style sets the tone for your team. The way you deliver feedback, respond to mistakes, or navigate conflict signals to your team what’s safe and what isn’t.

In fact, a 2023 report by the Australian Institute of Management found that employees with communicative leaders are 2.5x more likely to feel engaged and motivated at work.

Communication isn’t just a soft skill—it’s a core leadership function that drives wellbeing, trust, and results.

And in workplaces across Australia and New Zealand, where burnout, remote work, and rapid change are reshaping the landscape, the need for clear, human-centred communication has never been greater.

Want help strengthening communication in your team? Our ManagerSupport coaching service and custom workshops are here to help.

Reach out to us to explore options.