16 "Tips" for Good Communication

As a manager, I have an “Open Door” policy, which creates an atmosphere in which my people know with no confusion and no fear what is expected of them, and that help is always available to them. Any employee is not only welcome but encouraged to come to my office for a 1:1 anytime they need to talk – about anything. My door is always open and I make myself available to them (after all, my most important asset is my primary concern).

1. Identify the issue at hand.

2. Be specific.

3. No name calling.

4. Don’t interrupt or give long speeches.

5. Don’t assume I know what the other is thinking or going to say.

6. Schedule a time and a place to talk.

7. Recognize and respect “Belt-Lines.”

8. Take a break.

9. I must state what I think as opinion and not fact.

10. Use “I feel” statements.

11. Stick to the present issue.

12. Respond, don’t react.

13. Give and Ask for Feedback.

14. No contests – no battles.

15. Do follow-up checks.

16. Be willing to ask for help.

As manager, I need to “open the cupboards” and lay everything on the table. By letting others know who I am, what I want, and what I expect, I level the playing field. No longer in the dark, people have the information to make healthy choices for themselves. And along with choosing, become responsible for their choice.