The Communication Barrier

For a large number of people to work towards a common objective of organisational success, communication becomes a key facilitator. It is important for leaders to be able to communicate expectations and guidance in clear and unambiguous terms and for the led to be able to receive them in the manner intended by the communicator.

This most basic of tools, used by human beings in non-business situations as well, is often responsible for creating situations when not used correctly.

The folowing is an example of a communication that ended up conveying a message opposite to what was intended :

Quote

Hi R / A,

The whole ICC team is proud of you both.

Though the report was new to both of you, still you managed to meet the timelines. Thanks for your efforts you have put in today. You still have miles to go.

Keep up the good and hard work

Unquote

What appears to be the intention of the person sending the email ?

Praise R and A, two of his team-members, who have done a good job with a report even though it was new to them.

What does his email convey ?

That though it is commendable they met the timelines with a new report, they “still have miles to go”, i.e. they need to do a lot more before they can consider themselves to be good employees.

How would you have written this email if the intention was to convey praise ?

Conclusion

Young leaders need to work on ensuring that their communications skills in general, and language skills in particular, are polished to the extent required by their line of work. And, once polished, continue to ensure, through regular practice, that it stays polished.