Communication Vehicles: Don't Drive a Cement Truck in an Off-Road Rally (Part 1 of 2)

Joe Wynne is a versatile Project Manager experienced in delivering medium-scope projects in large organizations that improve workforce performance and business processes. He has a proven track record of delivering effective, technology-savvy solutions in a variety of industries and a unique combination of strengths in both process management and workforce management.

 

You wouldn’t want to drive a cement truck in an off-road rally, would you? (Of course, if you ever do, please let me know.) Well, that’s similar to using the wrong medium to communicate to the workforce. The vehicle you use to deliver your message can leave it stuck.

What you probably do now is pick the method that is most comfortable to you, no matter what your message is. A better way is to pick the most appropriate method of communication, and then adapt your message to make it more effective. The strategy of simply picking the most expedient method of communication and not bothering about effectiveness is best left up to the CIO and CEO.

How do you choose between face-to-face, phone conference or e-mail? Some situations and examples will help explain how you make these decisions.

General Motivation

Face-to-Face. If you are a good motivator--that is, if you can express yourself in a way that energizes others to act--then you should take advantage of this skill in person. Motivation is most effective using your voice and your body if possible. Think of the great motivating speakers. They wave their arms and fists, and use their eyes, words and body language to convince and motivate. You can do the same. Identify potential meetings where you can take advantage of this skill. So at the next kick-off meeting, get in…

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