Roadblocks to Effective Workplace Communication 12/15/2003 Sometimes the most troublesome workplace communications happen with an impulsive response to a question or request. To enhance your responses and your professional image, avoid the following: �No one ever told me� It is almost always unprofessional to make this comment. When you take this posture, you convey a message that you lack the initiative to stay informed about the important activities and events of the workplace. �We can�t do that� This one is guaranteed to upset the person you�re dealing with. Instead say, �That sounds like it might be a real challenge, but let�s see what we can do.� Then do your best to find a positive solution. �You�ll have to� Wrong! The other person does not have to meet such a demand unless it becomes that person�s choice to do so. Instead, use phrases such as, �Here�s how we can help with that� or �Here�s what can be done to prevent the problem.� �Hang on a second . . . I�ll be right back� If you�ve ever said that to a caller, you�ve created an environment for frustration. Instead say, �It may take some time to check. Are you able to hold or may I call you back as soon as I have the information?� �I thought someone else was taking care of it� Excuses convey disregard for the needs and concerns of others. Always check to make sure things are progressing. Expecting someone to get back to you limits your ability to remain decisive. Take the initiative yourself and get the problem solved. �I didn�t think of that� If you say things like this, you are displaying lack of thoughtfulness and vision. An inability to see down the road may indicate that you lack the ability to understand the importance of your work and the role you play in making your organization a success. The message in the workplace of today is clear. The only measure for success is performance. Whatever the roadblocks, it�s your job to remove them. If not, you�ll be perceived as one of them.