Flying to the West Coast not too long ago, I started to eavesdrop on the transmissions between pilots and the air traffic control. As I listened–not that long because it does get kind of boring–I noticed that every comment was confirmed and acknowledged before either the tower or the pilot made a move.
Confirmation and affirmation is really a critical aspect of leadership communications that doesn’t happen enough on the ground. We all tweet and send email and think our job is done. But do we know, unless someone responds, that the receiver has read our message and even more importantly understands it the way we intended it? How many times have I heard someone say, “well I sent an email about that,” and assumes that the person got it or interpreted it the way the sender meant it. So many of the issues that I see among clients are often a result of poor or improper communication. Taking the time to make sure you were heard and understand is vital. If the receiver doesn’t respond, don’t wait until a disaster or misunderstanding occurs. To be sure the “roger that,” “copy that” language of pilots is stilted and unnatural. But a “checking in” email or even something as old fashioned as a telephone call or stopping by a colleague’s office can make all the difference in ensuring that a project runs smoothly, a deadline gets met and a customer is satisfied.
Roger that, and over and out.
