A number of years ago my husband and I were to meet another couple at a specific restaurant and* time for a celebratory meal before the New Year. Unfortunately, we went to one restaurant and they went to another. We both wondered where each other were and found it unlikely behavior of each other. We were concerned that something unexpected occurred; of course, we filled it in with the worst possible* scenarios!

Later, we found that there was a misunderstanding about the restaurant. We went to the restaurant with “brown” in the name and they went to the restaurant with “blue” in the name! This was a comical error and made for stories and laughs years after. However, what happens when we don’t get our communications right at work? What does it cost when deliveries get made to the wrong location? What happens to morale when employees feel non-informed or misinformed? And what happens when we all”jump to conclusions” with no facts or basis of our concern?

Learning Alliances uses a number of tools within the organization and as models* for clients. Let’s look at five communication solutions for building more effective communication.

1. Ask for help dynamically! Do not allow fear of looking needy or uninformed block us from getting the job done properly as quickly as possible. To do this, we must ask for help ” not just on occasion but nearly every day. Repeat back what you heard about expectations and results for clarification. If you do not receive enough information, ask more questions so you can fully understand and complete the job effectively and accurately.
   
2. Communicate expectations clearly. Tell people what is needed and a bit of why. Communicate who else is involved and their area of expertise and importantly: explain the guidelines to be worked within (i.e. type of technology, timelines, etc.)
   
3. Avoid email when voicing a compliant or disagreeing. Email can be easily misinterpreted. It is also impersonal. Here’s a rule to apply. If after 3 emails, there is no resolution, pick up the phone or schedule a meeting so you can view one another and hear one another speaking. Be clear, ask questions and listen to other’s point of view to find solutions. Along with this, build the working relationship ” don’t damage it by hiding behind email.
   
4. Think before you speak. We cannot make more time into our day. However, we can use our time differently. Instead of fixing problems and challenges because we didn’t explain well enough to begin with, take the time to consider what’s important; how do they need to hear (based on communication style) and when is the end result due? We are all guilty of throwing “raw meat” over the fence and hoping for the best because we don’t have time to explain it for accurate and effective results the first time! (As I write this, I find I’m doing the “raw meat” approach with my employees. Hmmm:.now I have to lead by example.)
   
5. Focus on forward motion. Keep others informed of status and updates. STOP complaining about someone or something that “peeves” you and/or others. Find the solution. Go to the right person, resolve ” and move on!