When it comes to running a business, there are some great managers, and also some not-so-great managers. We’ve all had experiences with both, and after a while, we can pick out what traits we like in our managers.

One trait that is becoming more and more important for managers and supervisors are strong communication skills. Gone are the days of the manager barking out orders and hiding away in his office. Now managers are encouraged to meet face-to-face with their team on a very frequent basis and use communication to empower them to increase their success.

So how can you improve your management communication? Here are a few tips to improve your communication skills:

1. Attend A Management Communication Class
There are many courses available all over the country that managers and supervisors can attend to learn the right ways to communicate with their employees. Attending these courses can improve your communication skills in your professional life, as well as your personal life.

2. Utilize Team Collaboration Tools
Online team collaboration solutions can increase the amount of communication between you and your teammates, as well as increase trust and transparency in the output your employees are producing. Leverage one of these solutions to keep all your business communication in one place, and easily keep track of notes and discussions for future reference.

3. Encourage For Success
Be a cheerleader for your team. Give them praise and positive reinforcement to encourage them to continue on in their success. When they know someone is rooting for them, your employees will be more likely to work up to that encouragement.

4. Acknowledge Trust In Employees
People like being trusted. If you believe your team can do a great job managing a project, let them do it with minor oversight. This will keep them working hard to please you and retain that trust they’ve earned.

5. Actively Listen
Don’t just wait to speak - listen to what your team is saying. Try to understand their point of view and ask questions to probe more detailed responses. Once you know why they are saying what they’re saying, you’ll be able to respond better and meet their needs.

6. Be A Part Of The Team
Don’t hide in your office while everyone else is working in a cubicle world - join your team on a creative account or help them write whitepapers for clients. Showing your team that you can work on their projects too builds camaraderie and a better connection to you as a manager.

Once these communication styles become habits, you will be surprised at the level of confidence and positivity in your business. Employees like knowing someone is in their corner, and you can show them that by opening up, communicating to their needs and encouraging their success.

What are some of your favorite communication styles? Have you had a manger who was a fantastic communicator? Share your stories in the comments below.