Communication: the foundation of profitable businesses

Communication is paramount in business, and yet many managers give little thought to its importance. Are you one of those, asks Peter Hughes, or are you giving it the attention it deserves?

- Peter Hughes

Have you ever had your boss make a decision regarding your area of responsibility without informing or involving you? As someone once put it more crudely: “Have you ever been treated like a mushroom, kept in the dark and fed on manure?”

If not, consider yourself fortunate. I have, and I didn’t appreciate it. I know how it affected me and my level of respect for my boss and company, prompting me to leave as soon as possible.

Effective, open communication between boss and employee is the foundation of successful and profitable businesses. It’s the pillar supporting the entire structure and the oil that keeps the business wheels turning.

Good communication leads to employee buy-in to the company’s vision and strategies. It clarifies each person’s role, promotes alignment and a shared sense of purpose, boosts morale and engagement and fosters an efficient and productive work environment.

Furthermore, it cultivates a culture where employees feel comfortable expressing concerns or grievances, leading to a quick resolution of conflicts and encouraging the sharing of ideas for a more creative work environment.