The reason jobs are often not done right and employees are fired is because of lack of skill. Right? Wrong! Poor communication and ineffective human relations are the major causes. Remember: Communication is a "meeting of meanings." It's getting through to the other person what you mean in a way that they understand. In fact, you want them to do more than understand, you want them to act on the information in the correct way. Effective communication is talking and listening to create that understanding. The end result is to get things done in a way so that you, the organization, and the employee will all be satisfied.

Poor communication with your boss or your employees means the job won't be done well. It will mean friction and frustration. It can also result in foul-ups, misunderstood orders, wasted time, and unnecessary grievances. It could even cause work stoppages and strikes.

Try to see situations from their point of view. How would you feel if you were in their shoes? Ask how they feel about the task. Tell them how you feel about the task's importance and what having it done well means to you. Think about how ready the employee is to receive your message. Would another time be better?

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CEO, A.E. Schwartz & Associates, Boston, MA., a comprehensive organization which offers over 40 skills based management training programs. Mr. Schwartz conducts over 150 programs annually for clients in industry, research, technology, government, Fortune 100/500 companies, and nonprofit organizations worldwide. He is often found at conferences as a key note presenter and/or facilitator. His style is fast-paced, participatory, practical, and humorous. He has authored over 65 books and products, and taught/lectured at over a dozen colleges and universities throughout the United States.