# 3 Ways to Give Your Employees Multiple Communication Channels
Silence in the workplace breeds problems. When departments operate in isolation, resentment and misinformation take root. When coworkers avoid casual conversation, they lose connection to your company culture. Most critically, when employees don't feel comfortable approaching their managers, they start polishing their resumes.
The solution isn't just about encouraging talk—it's about creating the right environments and tools that make meaningful communication natural and productive.
## 1. Design Your Physical Space for Connection
Your office layout directly influences how people interact. Traditional cubicle farms and closed-door policies might feel orderly, but they stifle the spontaneous conversations that build strong teams.
**Create conversation zones:** - Install multiple small meeting rooms for impromptu discussions - Design comfortable break areas that invite lingering - Position collaborative workspaces where different departments naturally intersect
The key is balancing openness with purpose. While you want employees talking, you need enough structure—through positive management examples and team activities—to keep conversations productive rather than turning into gossip sessions.
## 2. Build Communication Into Your CRM System
Email and phone calls aren't enough for modern workplace communication. Your customer relationship management system should include tools that make internal communication seamless.
**Consider platforms like:** - **Salesforce Chatter** for quick notes, questions, and updates between team members and account managers - **Integrated messaging features** that keep work-related discussions organized and searchable - **Project-specific channels** where relevant team members can collaborate in real-time
These tools keep communication work-focused while making it more immediate and accessible than traditional email chains.
## 3. Enable Professional Yet Personal Connection
Modern workplaces need communication tools that feel natural without becoming unprofessional. Platforms like Slack create space for both work discussions and the personal connections that make people want to stay at your company.
**Effective informal communication includes:** - Team-specific channels for project updates and quick questions - General channels where employees can share appropriate personal news - Easy ways to clarify confusing official communications without formal meetings
This approach is especially valuable for remote employees or multi-location companies. Regular, friendly interaction helps everyone feel included, even if they don't actively participate in every conversation.
## The Bottom Line
Strong workplace communication doesn't happen by accident. It requires intentional design choices—both in your physical space and digital tools—that make connection natural and productive.
When employees have multiple ways to communicate effectively, they build stronger working relationships, feel more engaged with company goals, and are significantly more likely to stay long-term. The investment in communication infrastructure pays dividends in reduced turnover and improved collaboration.
Ready to transform your workplace communication? Contact Tangram Interiors to explore how thoughtful design can create spaces that bring your team together.
