Communication: A Recipe for Success

Earlier this week I met with an employee who had reached a high level of frustration with his supervisor.  A very quiet and reserved individual, this employee is extremely career-driven and a perfectionist.   His frustration surrounded a recent project that the supervisor had returned with instructions that the paper looked bad and to change it. The supervisor offered no specifics as to what looked bad or what changes were desired, just to get the job done.  From the employees perspective, there was no understanding of what needed to occur or why.  From our conversation I gathered that this wasn't an isolated incident.

 

Communication is the act of passing on ideas and information. To increase productivity, the message must be clear and complete. It has to provide the receiver with everything they need to take action, it must provide the key points. The advantage of clear communication is that people will understand your message.   It will allow employees to collaborate effectively and complete a task efficiently.   The employee won't spent precious time figuring out what you're trying to tell them. Clear communication requires us to be direct.

 

For employees, when frustration rises in the workplace often there is no sanctioned place to discuss (or vent) those frustrations.   Employees may not disclose that they are frustrated or are concerned that their frustration may fall on unreceptive ears.    These employees may show a reduction in motivation, and in the worst case scenario, leave in search of greener pastures.   HR should encourage open communication and feedback.  We should acknowledge the employees concerns and take steps to diffuse the employee frustration.  Always listen to the employee and then categorize the problem - can it be remedied?  Ask the employee, what needs to be better?  Allow the employee to make recommendations.   In this situation my recommendation was to sit down with the supervisor, discuss not just this project, but the on-going communication difficulties and figure out a goal to overcome the problem.  If resolution can't be reached, HR is always ready to step in and assist.

Communication is an essential part of any successful business.  Remember, to get your message across, use clear communication.