30 Mar No News is Bad News

From the late Fred Smith (breakfastwithfred.com): So often we fail to give the gift of appreciation which could mean so much. In my early career, often times an employee would ask the supervisor, “How am I doing?” Hoping for a word of appreciation, he would more frequently than not get hit in the face with: “You haven’t heard me say anything to you in three months, have you? You’re doing ok.” The Bible tells us that when it is ours to give, we shouldn’t hold back.  

I was recently in a seminar about the “next generation worker.” Maybe you can identify with this: no news is bad news. Even if there is nothing new to report, it is better to be regular in your updates — EVEN an update that simply says “there’s nothing new to report; just wanted to keep you informed.” 

Be intentional about how often you communicate. There’s no magic formula, but test it out in your own world and, without creating extra noise and clutter, be intentional about how often you revisit topics with your colleagues and teams. 

When it comes to appreciation, regular updates and communication in itself can be a huge move of showing respect and appreciation. Also, when you only have meetings or confrontations over something negative, you are moving your culture in a negative direction. Start looking for things you appreciate, whether in everyday tasks or in unique situations, and communicate your appreciation, on-purpose! Catch people doing good! (By the way, this is a two-way street; non-management can practice this as well! How much fun that can be!) 

Final thought from Fred Smith: Throughout my business career I’ve been impressed with the importance of secretaries so I’ve tried to get to know them personally. Just last week while I was waiting for my friend, the CEO of a Dallas company, his secretary came out to visit with me while I waited. He had in a previous time told me how he appreciated her and how capable she was. When I told her what he said, she said, “You mean he said that about me?” And then she paused and repeated, “You mean he said that about ME? I can’t believe it.” He appreciated her greatly, but simply forgot to let her know. A gift isn’t given until it is received. I am convinced that a word of appreciation and encouragement could change companies, homes, and schools. 

I agree with Fred. 

Dear Christian Radio:

1. Even though you may fear “over-communication,” would it not be better than risk having someone on your team feel left out, untrusted, and unappreciated? What three things can you communicate right now to your team? Do it again tomorrow!
2. How can you use group texts, email, Facebook, and even old-fashioned paper memos to create regular communication to keep all members of team well informed?
3. Make it fun! While some may make snarky comments about so many meetings and too much communication, the truth is, regular (even daily) communication can create a tighter bond that you ever imagined possible. What can it hurt to try?

Daniel Britt .::. VP of Culture Integration

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