Chapter 6 - Power of Communication

Summary

The freedom to speak one's mind and self-respect are of exceptionally important to employees. Communication is nothing but mutual exchange of information, at all levels, without any status block, which facilitates smooth functioning of the organisation. Delegating responsibility and communicating the company's vision to all employees should be prioritised. Without recieving on the information an employee cannot be expected to assume responsibility. Similarly, someone who has been informed properly cannot his work related duties. Once the vision is known, each one would accept responsibility enthusiastically and would contribute to one's maximum capacity. Staff should be kept informed about policy changes or new directives as to avoid uncertainties or undue delay. Employees need to gain more information about their company so that employees at all levels can genuinely consider the company matters as important as their own.

Communication is a two-way process

To communicate properly, it is necessary to focus on the receiver of the message. Communication is very much a two-way process. Managers often talk about the ‘middle management sponge’, which soaks in information but does not further it. Part of the problem is a lack of focus on the needs of those receiving the information. It is all the more important that credibility is built into the message, for the communication to be successful. For instance, a manager has to be punctual himself in order to expect punctuality from others.

The Chief Executive of a company advocated Total Quality Management (TQM) concept in his company. However, the prevailing working environment in the company was not conducive for promoting TQM. One of the main constraints was the Chief Executive's style of working. He rarely maintained punctuality.