Blog 4 of 6: Communication and Collaboration
This is the fourth in a series of six blogs that draws on our extensive research involving 75 medium-sized businesses and 1500 leaders. This research has identified six key challenges that these businesses must address to succeed.
In a dynamic business landscape, effective communication and collaboration are pivotal. These competencies are not confined to the corporate suite but are essential responsibilities of every leader within an organisation. Below, we explore the key aspects of communication and collaboration that every leader should embody:
Communication is Every Leader’s Job – Not Just the CEO
Effective communication should not be seen as the sole responsibility of the CEO. Every leader within an organisation, from mid-level managers to department heads, plays a crucial role in communicating strategic goals and operational directives. This decentralised approach ensures that accurate and motivational messages reach every corner of the organisation, fostering a unified understanding and commitment to the company's objectives.
Consistent Message Cascaded via Leaders – Filling Everyone’s Cup
Consistency in messaging is critical. When leaders at all levels echo the same themes and directives, it reinforces the organisation's values and strategic aims. This approach ensures that every team member receives the same information, which is vital for maintaining alignment and motivation across the organisation. Leaders must be adept at translating overarching goals into relevant, actionable insights for their specific teams. We previously wrote a detailed blog about this as well. Click here to read it.
Timely, Regular, Often, and Multi-Channel
Communication efficacy is heavily dependent on timing and frequency. Leaders must communicate often, through regular updates and as situations evolve, ensuring that all team members are continually informed and engaged utilising multiple communication channels—such as emails, internal newsletters, meetings, and digital platforms—caters to diverse preferences and learning styles, enhancing the overall reach and effectiveness of the messages conveyed. Meetings are often viewed with distain, but regular, programme, well structured meetings are critical for communication, coordination, decision making and for connection.
A Communication Gap is Filled with Rumour, Speculation and Gossip
In the absence of clear and regular communication, misinformation can flourish, leading to rumors and gossip that can destabilise the workplace. Leaders must proactively fill potential communication gaps with factual, timely information to maintain trust and clarity within the team. Recognizing and addressing these gaps quickly is essential to sustaining a positive and productive organisational culture.
Understand Span of Control and Influence
100 people is the maximum number of rumours one person can control! Therefor, leaders must be aware of their span of control—the direct and indirect areas they influence through their role and other leaders. This understanding helps in tailoring communication to be most effective, ensuring it is both appropriate and impactful. By acknowledging the extent of their influence, leaders can strategically guide and inspire their teams, leveraging their authority to foster a culture of transparency and mutual respect.
Conclusion
Communication is the sister of leadership. The role of communication in leadership extends beyond the dissemination of information. It is about building trust, aligning teams with the organisation's vision, and driving collaborative success. Each leader’s commitment to effective communication practices is fundamental in steering the organisation towards its goals and maintaining a robust, inclusive workplace culture.
Contributed by Greg Allnutt MNZM, Partner