Effective Communication

Good communication on and off the field gives everyone a better chance to perform well and enjoy themselves. Simple tools can create a positive environment in your team, club, and even at home or work. Open, honest, and accountable communication builds the foundation for psychological safety by creating trust that any topic can be discussed without fear.

Effective communication helps teams work together smoothly, improves learning, and builds trust. Knowing how to express concerns, provide feedback, and share ideas openly creates a stronger, more supportive team environment.

What Can I Do to Promote Effective Communication on My Team?

Choose the Best Method or Medium of Communication

Communication happens through talking, writing, and body language. Consider how to choose the most appropriate way to communicate what you want to say.

Body Language Matters:

Your facial expressions and gestures impact how others receive your message.

Check Your Method:

Think about whether to speak, write, or use nonverbal cues to communicate effectively.

Approach Concerns with Curiosity

When a concern or disagreement arises:

Talk in Person:

Speaking face-to-face is often better for sensitive topics.

Prepare the Conversation:

Let people know in writing that you’d like to talk, giving them, and you, time to prepare.

Stay Curious:

Approach these discussions with an open mind to better understand others’ perspectives.

Set Team Communication Guidelines

Start by discussing how your team wants to communicate with everyone.

Agree on Acceptable Behaviour:

You can use this worksheet to set team expectations for communication.

Encourage Openness:

Let people know they can raise concerns or disagreements and that these discussions are part of improving the team.

Establish Practical Channels:

Decide how to share information, like using a group chat or app, and make sure everyone is included.

Give and Receive Feedback Positively

Feedback is a big part of learning in sport. Use this same openness to learning in other situations. Give specific, helpful, and kind feedback and remain open to receiving it as well.

Group Guidelines for Communication

Agree on values-based guidelines to keep communication productive and respectful. Below are some suggestions:

Maintain confidentiality for sensitive topics.
Listen with curiosity and focus on the future.
Allow one person to speak at a time.
Avoid blaming or shaming.

Give feedback that’s specific and supportive.
Take breaks if needed.
Keep phones away to stay present.
Designate a meeting leader to keep conversations on track, call breaks, or manage time.

Featured Resources

How to Create a Team Agreement

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How to Handle Disagreements