Monday, October 26, 2009

Communicating the State of Your Business

The economy might be starting to level out, but that doesn't mean your employees are completely at ease in the workplace. And if you don't communicate the state of your business to them, they'll immediately start to think the worst--and they'll convince each other to think the worst, too. Feel uncomfortable talking about the company's cash flow? This Business Resources article on NFIB.com has tips to help:
Communicate bad news face-to-face rather than by email.
Lead off the conversation with the unvarnished facts
Interpret the facts; tell them exactly what they mean for the company and for the employees.
Create a positive metaphor. Example: "Times are tough but we've been through tough times before." Or, "We're a team and we'll get through this as a team."
Make it hope-sensible. If you're saying there's reason for hope, provide specifics. Don't just offer platitudes not grounded in reality.

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