Paying a rich price for poor communication

Earlier this year, I visited a close friend in Seattle.

Having been there many times, we usually select a different point of interest for side excursions. One year it was Cannon Beach, Ore.; another, Port Townsend, Wash.

This year, we went a bit farther to Vancouver in British Columbia.

Traveling for me always is a great learning experience, and this was no exception. During our four-hour train ride to Vancouver, we heard two co-worker passengers openly discussing issues in their workplace. Their voices became louder as their passion continued to grow, and those around them could hear every word.

The co-workers’ conversation on how poor communication in their company was leading to a serious lack of trust among employees – they included. That lack of trust was causing many long-term and dedicated employees to look for new jobs – they included.

Could these have been your employees?

How would you feel if you knew your employees were losing trust in your company and looking to leave because of poor communication? What would you do?

As a business owner, many things were running through my head as I tried hard not to listen to this conversation. After all, I was on vacation.

At first, I thought maybe I could help them identify ways of respectfully approaching their supervisor and discussing the situation. But, of course, it wasn’t my business or my place to join the conversation.

At the same time, I couldn’t help thinking about how I would feel if I were the owner or leader of this company. What steps would I have taken to correct the situation?