welcome to the business version of “sharing is caring.”
by steven e. sacks
the new fundamentals
some people believe that knowledge is power, and the more of it they hoard the more power accrues to them. regardless of what level you are in your organization, the more open communication you encourage, the better you and your company will perform.
more: take that extra breath with email | is your message open to interpretation? | why proper communication is critical | how to create effective internal communications | how to select your firm’s board | trust is a key organizational ingredient | real influence vs. immediate gratification | 4 ways to boost job satisfaction | retention starts with the hiring interview
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i have found in many work environments that what results from the perceived “power trip” someone derives from keeping things “close to the vest” is more backbiting and a greater misalignment of strategies.
“knowledge is like money: to be of value it must circulate, and in circulating it can increase in quantity and, hopefully, in value.” – louis l’amour
why are there information gaps? it can be attributed to lack of employees’ interest in understanding the company’s vision. not everyone, however, is disinterested, and they will appreciate the fact that leadership is sharing information with them. this will make them feel like an integral part of a team and not just a body with a pulse. regarding meetings, if they are managed and orchestrated properly, people will not fret about being taken away from their daily functions because they will gain an emotional and intellectual investment in the business, its success and the role they can play.
sometimes information to be shared may not be positively received, especially if it has to do with a restructure, potential layoffs or an acquisition. employees will naturally wonder what, if any, impact it will have on them. sharing information early and often can allay fears. you as a company or team leader will earn the respect of your staff.
in the words of peter drucker, “the basic economic resource – the means of production – is no longer capital, not natural resources, nor labor. it is and will be knowledge.”
finally, as a leader, don’t let paranoia take hold by worrying what the fallout may be because you freely shared information or sought feedback. you will be pleasantly surprised at the support, understanding, increased productivity and improved morale.