The 5 Communication Steps to Avoid Company Failure
I have my own unique perspective on my surroundings. In fact, we all do. Some can express it effectively, while others cannot. But their opinion still holds equal standing.
There are some things which are seemingly defined by science but are nevertheless under debate—because having an opinion is human nature. For example, take global warming. Even though a high majority of scientists state it as reality, many still dispute its existence because they draw different conclusions from the facts.
So what happens when a destructive or dangerous opinion is introduced within a company or society? Disagreement on a single idea can effectively destroy all constructive communication within a group of people.
Keeping time with family and friends aside, individuals in today’s world spend the majority of their time in the work environment. Having disagreements in a workplace can lead to a hostile environment and can slowly evolve into a larger problem that may become disastrous for the company and the people involved.
It can lead to people getting frustrated and dividing amongst themselves. The best-case scenario would be people leaving their jobs; worst-case, the company’s growth would be hindered.
So how do we keep this disruptive issue from arising?
COMMUNICATION.
This is not a new concept, but it’s one of the most undermined aspects of the workplace. This simple element of an effective organization is the most forgotten one out of the bunch. So let’s recap to clarify the basics.
Communication is the key. Communication does not only entail letting others know your opinion— no matter what it may be—but it is a two-way street. Besides getting your point across, you should be willing to listen to others and understand their viewpoints.
An environment promoting listening should be proposed and maintained by the manager and other leaders so that everyone may benefit from it. The steps to creating such an environment are simple.
1) Propose to discuss a topic
2) Listen to the other person’s full explanation and position
3) Recognize that they have a different opinion, which may not change yours but can introduce a different point of view to you
4) Accept the different opinion as what it is: an opinion
5) Learn and let go if you think it is not a good opinion to have
If a person would like to maintain a stress-free, no-pressure work environment, then they should be willing to accept differences in opinions. This habit will not only help create a better work environment but will also help everyone live better, more enjoyable lives.
If you, as a manager, create a work environment based on the positive effect of the different opinions and being solution-oriented, you will see your firm grow right in front of your eyes.
On the other hand, if you are facing combative behavior or reluctance towards discussion among your employees, which leads to major communication issues, you have only one choice: to let go of the people facilitating this behavior.
“Be willing to lose and rebuild what you can on top of moving sand.”
If you are not at the top of the chain and you have a peer who is not willing to be flexible in thought, and the company wants to keep them on board, then your choice becomes clear: you should leave the company. Find an alternative workplace.
Do not destroy your life with a stressful work environment simply because your manager is incapable of building a well-functioning company.
Remember that the final choice is always yours.
Thank you for reading, I would appreciate hearing your thought on this.
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Davide Scalia is the CEO & Founder of Namaka Consulting, with over 15 years of experience in the Marine Industry and over 10 years’ experience in Strategic Business Development, helping over 500 businesses to clarify what to do next to build the Brand, how to increase sales, giving new ideas to obtain exponential Business Growth.
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