Effective internal communication is something that is often talked about but is rarely experienced in most businesses today.
Why does this happen? As in most cases it starts at the top. Or to be more blunt, it does not start at the top. CEO’s, presidents, business owners and managers must set the example in order for this to happen.
In most of the companies I have worked with, each president or CEO tells me they want their leadership team to tap into their true talent and skill sets. Some of their reasons are:
- Doing so assures a higher return of their leadership potential.
- The leadership team will be happier.
- Their employees and customers will be more satisfied.
- The company or organization will be more profitable.
But, running a business is complicated, and issues get in the way. Invariably people and their behavioral styles, customer demands and employee issues all contribute to the blockage of clear communication.
It is like the analogy of a captain and his or her crew on a ship. Working together as a team, it is critical that they all communicate clearly and consistently in order for the vessel to reach its’ port of call safely and on time.
When they don’t communicate properly, the ship can be thrown off course and be delayed in reaching its’ destination. This can dramatically increase the cost of sailing the ship. Additional resources must be tapped in order to help the ship reach its’ port of call. In some cases it can take the vessel so far off course, that it threatens the safety of the entire crew and passengers, adding tremendous costs.
Remember one way to prevent poor dialogue within your leadership team is to model clear communication and trust. In other words, walk the talk. Nothing builds a company faster than breaking down walls of misunderstanding by having open and honest communication.
Would you like to have a conversation about how I might be able to help you create effective internal communication in your company or organization. Give me a call at 734-404-5909 or email me at tom@tomborg.com
Learn how to build trust and communication in this podcast recording with radio host Jim Blasingame as he interviews Tom Borg. Enjoy the show.