by Leigh Goessl

Created on: May 10, 2008   Last Updated: September 06, 2009

Communication is the key to success in any relationship. When a lack of communication exists in the organizational setting it has the potential to cause significant problems between management and employees. If this absence of interaction persists in the workplace, matters typically go unaddressed.

As a result conflict often arises and problems remain unresolved because of the absence of communication. A lack of verbal exchanges commonly increase resentments and this usually further escalates the situation. Fortunately this kind of situation can be reversed by making a few changes in the organizational environment.

The best way to avoid communication related issues is to encourage an atmosphere which promotes open communication. Leaders can effectively set the environment to be communication friendly by establishing policies which welcome the exchange of ideas. Employees are likely to respond favorably and will probably embrace any opportunity to share ideas when encouraged.

What are some guiding principles or corrective actions leaders can put into place to improve communication between management and employees?

*Establish an open door policy

A definitive way to improve communication between management and employees is for managers to create an open door policy to welcome any thoughts, comments, complaints or suggestions. When employees are encouraged to share feelings, it gives a sense of empowerment where they feel comfortable making contact with their managers to voice their concerns.

When managers sit behind closed doors and remain aloof, only coming out of their offices from time to time to check up on things, employees aren't usually at ease talking to their bosses when issues arise; as a result problems fester because they remain unaddressed.

Establishing an open door policy effectively removes that discomfort. This not only improves communication but also benefits the organization as a whole.

*Nurture a team environment

Another way to foster solid communication is for leaders to consider themselves a team member, not act as someone who managers the members. When managers take an active part in the daily activities and maintain an avid interest in what goes on during the day employees are more inclined to relate to their bosses.

This makes them feel more comfortable approaching the boss. Organizational studies indicate that businesses which do not put total emphasis on hierarchical status, but rather work off a horizontal flat scale have stronger communication;

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