In my last blog entry and in a couple of LinkedIn groups I issued a challenge to 'say it is as it is'.
It's interesting that whilst the example I used was a business one people suggested using caution when 'saying it as it is' personally. Quite rightly I was told that we don't just share an opinion with others without first considering the validity of them needing to hear our opinion nor consider their feelings. Empathy and rapport were both mentioned when considering the timing, words, tone and way in which the opinions are shared.
It made me wonder if that's what's missing in business communications? It's all too easy for someone to send out a company missive and hide behind the anonymity e.g:
* You're flight's been delayed by 3 hours and can't tell you any more.
* You're on the aircraft and the doors are closed but we're not taking off for 2 hours.
As soon as we spoke to a person - at the desk or the pilot - the message changed. There was certainly more empathy and rapport.
I'm not sure what the answer is but something to consider when asking business to say it as it is.
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