Create a Regular Pattern of Communication

Establishing a standard process for communication helps to keep various constituents informed and brings consistency to your messages. Tailor the content of the communications to your business. Assign ownership for the creation of specific reports or items of communication. Create a set schedule for communication that everyone knows. This will not only create clarity but saves time and energy responding to ad hoc requests for information.

“Create a set schedule for communication that everyone knows. This will not only create clarity but saves time and energy responding to ad hoc requests for information.” 

When an employee asks “What new customers did we bring on last month?” You can respond, “We publish that information each week in our customer review summary.” Here is an example of a regular communication process:

Establishing this regular process will reduce wasted time and create consistent flow of information to various constituents.

I remember my first thoughts about creating process. Our perspective was that too much process would stifle innovation. I found the complete opposite to be true. Process is not a dirty word. This is a critical perspective to address but even if you’re not convinced, add process to your business anyway, and the results will change your perspective. You’ll find that process actually improves innovation, creates the stability and opportunity for creativity, and provides the organizational structure to meaningfully implement both. Process also ensures another critical result: an operating structure that helps you manage your business and transforms your daily experience from chaos to control. Once this occurs, you won’t be asking, “How do I have time for all these meetings?” but “What am I going to do with all this free time?”