Keeping the Lines of Communication Open Between Management and Staff

 "The lack of communication between management and employees was always a source of frustration for me. Management would make policy changes without informing employees. The employees would then be disciplined for not adhering to the new policy."

It's easy to create conclusions based on preconceptions when we look at people as titles and roles. Relationships are the purpose and energy behind all wonderful things, thus a lack of communication between people is stressful and depressing. Any lack of communication stems from a lack of comprehension, which is frequently the result of our unwillingness to be open with others because true communication necessitates risk. We run the risk of learning something that requires us to change our perspective, of acknowledging and feeling the emotional component of communication, and of discovering that we don't know the answer.

I'm thinking you're looking for practical solutions to your problem, so here are some suggestions for avoiding miscommunication and developing connections that promote real communication. Each suggestion is applicable to any employee, regardless of their formal position (management or staff) inside the firm.

1. Assume the best-case scenario. Recognize that communication is amazing rather than simple. The majority of people do not wake up one day and intend to inflict others pain. Most people want to accomplish good work, be a part of a solution and have meaningful interactions with others. So, if you think someone hasn't interacted with you, presume that they have tried and that you haven't received the message.

2. Put yourself in their shoes. Even if we can't see them, everyone has issues and struggles. And, rarely is a task as simple as it appears from the outside. Take the time to examine the other person's issues, worries, and ambitions when building a business relationship (important for good communication). Take a chance and ask them if you can't fathom what they're worried about.

3. Be the person you want them to be. If you want a coworker (which is what all employees are, regardless of their position) to keep you informed about policy changes, tell them what you want to know, how you prefer to get information, and make sure you communicate changes and updates with them. We make a lot of assumptions about what "should" and "might" happen, but we aren't always willing to do what we expect others to do.

Erika K. Oliver creates communication miracles by combining her expertise in marketing, public relations, interpersonal communication, facilitation, and project management with a joyful attitude. Erika works with both large and small businesses, with a focus on those with a social goal. Visit the author's website for more information.