COMMUNICATION

This guideline is one of the more important for both management and employees. It is a two-way street, and both should strive to keep the airwaves open. Even though communication is a two-way street, it must start with management.

Management should set the standard by creating an environment conducive to openness without fear of reprisal or ridicule. At all times communication must be polite and conducive to enhancing self-esteem. The best way to get started is as with all the other guidelines: establish a steering committee to set the policy and the guidelines for implementation.

Then create the opportunity for employee involvement teams to get the program underway.

Some of the more common and effective programs include:

company newsletters, staff and employee meetings, and an open invitation from management to allow employees at all levels to hold informal conversations or brainstorming sessions in employee lounges during breaks.