Let’s Play Chinese Whispers! 

 

Do you play this game in your business?

 

Does it start with someone saying something but then not telling anyone else? Then someone thinks they heard a message so they tell someone else their version? That’s how the whispers begin…

 

On the other hand what’s worse is when there is no sharing of any kind, or zero communication. Imagine the consequences of this scenario. No one knows anything, ever. Where do you stand?

 

So what is the message here? 

 

It’s about effective communication and why it’s vital for the growth and success of any business, small or large. With it your business with thrive. Without it your people will drift away and your business will suffer.

 

Communication is one interaction that you do every day. You open your mouth and you speak (on occasion without really thinking) Why then is it the case that many business owners fail to communicate with their people?

 

Consider the impact of poor communication within a cricket team for example. The captain may have a game plan or strategy to achieve his/her goal. Proudly striding out onto the pitch, the captain knows what he/she wants to do and how he/she will play the game. The rest of the team follow; scratching their heads not knowing who will bowl first, what the game plan actually is, or how they might include different tactics to improve their chances of winning the game. What do you think the result will be?

 

Now let’s see what good communication can do for the cricket team. Before the game the captain shares his/her strategy, giving the team an opportunity to participate and to make suggestions. The input of each team member is valued and it allows for the team as a whole to work together toward their end goal. Now as they all proudly stroll onto the pitch, each individual knows what they have to do and how they have to do it, to score runs and to take the wickets required.

 

When you look at your business right now, which team are you in? Are you the captain who keeps to yourself, without sharing? Think about the adverse effect of you being the solitary captain. Will your team win, more importantly do they know how to win, or do they have brilliant ideas that you perhaps haven’t thought of that can provide an ideal solution?

 

Effective communication starts at the top

 

As a business owner it is crucial to view your team as inclusive, meaning you are a branch of the team and the combined branches will make your team performance better. Be seen as a role model who is open to discussion. The greater the level of interaction and communication exchange that you offer, the greater the level of involvement and empowerment your team will feel.

 

No longer will people feel undervalued, unsupported, and at times afraid of you as their boss. Positive engagement with and the acceptance of original ideas and innovations between you and your team will lead to increased productivity, flexibility and responsibility.

 

Set the standard in your business as someone who respects the thoughts and input from all team members. Share your challenges. Recognise and celebrate your success, with your team. After all, without these key people, your grasp of success may have been out of reach. 

 

Communicate with your team on a regular basis. Provide plenty of opportunity for people to develop a clear understanding of what is expected and how you will help them. Listen and encourage active participation to build team rapport. Demonstrate that you value each person as an individual. Banish the Chinese Whispers, once and for all. 

 

Share the vision, share the journey and share in the success!