Instead of general points of discussion about communication, below is a list of some do’s and don'ts to remember regarding communication in training.
•Do - Speak in a relaxed, cordial manner; try to put the employee at ease (especially new employees).
•Do - Encourage questions by stopping often and making sure the employee understands you.
•Do - Be as concise as possible, address all their questions or comments, explain why we do things a certain way.
•Do - Make a note to "get back to" an employee who asks a question and you don't know the answer.
•Do - Always speak in a way that demonstrates respect and dignity.
•Do - Speak to each individual’s level.
•Do - Establish eye contact and smile often; try to instill confidence in the employee.
•Do - Learn names as quickly as possible.
•Do - Ask an employee to explain what you've told them if it is somewhat complicated.
•Don't - Rush through training sessions as it adds pressure to employees.
•Don't - Cut employee's comments off - regardless of how wrong or right - always let the person finish their statement.
•Don't - Give answers such as "that's just the way we do it" or "I don't know why, just do it this way".
•Don't - Try to fake an answer you don't really know - more harm can come than good.
•Don't - Talk "down" to employees like a parent teaching a child.
•Don't - Try to impress people with "big words".
•Don't - Avoid eye contact or appear stern or worried - this can only create tension in the employees.
•Don't - Be embarrassed to ask employees’ names when you have forgotten.
•Don't - Take an employee’s "sure I understand" as an indication of complete understanding. Although this may be true, often it is not.