Leading Through Change: How Honest, Clear Communication Prevents Workplace Confusion

Even absent organization change, it is necessary to be very clear about what you mean and what you expect from employees.  Clear, concise, repeated communication is always needed when we are trying to get a message to people.

Add change and disruption to the mix in a company, and the need for honest, direct communication from top leaders becomes even more important. When change is anticipated and when upheaval happens that was not planned, in both realities leaders need to step up and give clear direction to their people. Messaging needs to be repeated across many channels in varied ways in order for employees to hear and understand what is being communicated.

Here’s the key thing to remember: if leaders don’t tell people what is coming in the midst of shifting realities, employees will make up their own version of reality and share it across the organization.  Leaders need to tell what they know and be honest about what they don’t know. As events unfold, leaders need to keep employees apprised of new information as it becomes available. Yes, there will always be some information that needs to be kept confidential. But, when appropriate, as much as possible needs to be shared with employees, including the news that is very hard to hear.

If you are anticipating or are currently leading change in your organization, and you need help determining how and what to share with your people, reach out to us at laura@conoverconsulting.com.