Communication is often overlooked when discussing business growth strategies, but it is the foundation upon which successful companies are built. After 25 years of experience working with people from 24 different countries and teaching businesses in 16 different countries, I’ve come to understand that communication is the linchpin that decides whether a business thrives or breaks down. In this blog, I’m going to share eight critical steps to improve your team’s communication, which can help propel your business to the next level.

What is the Biggest Underlying Principle of Project Success?

It’s not just about the people or the project itself; it’s all about effective communication. Imagine your business as a network of communications – selling to customers, buying from vendors, marketing to your target audience, addressing customer concerns, and the internal teamwork; all of it revolves around effective communication. In a conflict situation, you need to lead with your heart to initiate a conversation and then conclude it with your brain. This compassionate aggression can set the stage for better team dynamics and productivity.

Over Communicate to Avoid Miscommunication

It’s a well-known fact that communication often leads to miscommunication. Approximately 80% of communications are miscommunications. People tend to listen half-heartedly or not at all, which results in things being misunderstood. To combat this, overcommunication is crucial. Ensure that your messages are clear, concise, and, most importantly, repeated. When your team hears something repeatedly, they are more likely to remember and act on it.

Encourage Open Dialogue

Early in my career, I was the type of CEO who believed in enforcing my decisions without considering others’ opinions. I believed that as the CEO, I knew what was best for the company. However, this approach led to repeated failures. Over time, I learned that it’s not about your ego or your significance; it’s about solving your customers’ problems. Open dialogue is crucial to understanding what your customers need and how your team can work together to meet those needs.

The Power of Storytelling

Think back to your childhood. What do you remember? Stories told by your parents or the books you read, right? That’s the power of storytelling. Stories resonate deeply with people, making them an effective tool to sell ideas to your team. A company, at its core, is just an idea, one that can change the world in some way. Therefore, you must communicate your ideas through storytelling to create trust and resonate with your team.

Follow Action for Results

In business, it’s results that matter, not merely actions. Many businesses focus on activities rather than outcomes. Team members might report having worked eight hours, but the key is the result they achieved during that time. Ensure your team prioritizes results over actions. This shift can make a massive difference in your business’s productivity and growth.

Becoming a Gardner and a Chess Master

Striking a balance between being a gardener and a chess master is vital. A gardener is patient, nurturing, and believes in the growth of the company over time. A chess master, on the other hand, is ruthless and aims to win the market competition. To succeed, you must embody both qualities. Adopt compassionate patience and intolerant action, depending on the situation and your team’s needs.

Building a Team of Teams

With a growing business, complexity increases, and it becomes hard to manage communication effectively. This is where the concept of “team of teams” comes into play. Instead of a traditional hierarchy, establish a circular management system. Everyone has an accountability partner, and mentoring and support are built into the organizational structure. This helps streamline communication and align everyone towards the company’s goals.

1% Continuous Improvement

Once you’ve understood and implemented these seven principles, remember that continuous improvement is key. To perfect flawless communication, you must consistently refine your approach. Strive to be the best version of yourself and aim for 1% improvement each day. Small, continuous enhancements will lead to significant results in the long run.

The Checklist for Effective Communication

Now, assess your team by using this checklist:

• Do they trust you as a leader?
• Do they trust each other?
• Are they committed to the company’s goals?
• Do they hold themselves accountable for their actions?
• Are they focused on delivering results?
• Do they take initiative in their roles?
• Are they open to continuous improvement?

By evaluating your team against these criteria, you can determine whether your team is on track to become world-class.

In conclusion, effective communication is the cornerstone of business success. By following these eight steps, you can transform your team’s communication and drive your business to the next level. Remember, businesses are run by communication, and investing in improving it can be a game-changer for your success.

If you want to dive deeper into these concepts and take your business to the next level, I invite you to subscribe to my channel and explore more valuable insights.

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