It’s no revelation that businesses with multiple locations can suffer from poor communication between sites. Poor communication can lead to lost time and dollars as well as frustration and burnout. Fortunately, there are foolproof ways to simplify communication and create an inclusive culture between sites.
1. Give Managers the Skills They Need to Effectively Communicate
Not every manager possesses excellent communication skills, but that doesn’t mean they can’t learn them! There are plenty of options when it comes to equipping managers and team members alike with the necessary skills to thrive in communication. There are online and in-person courses available for effective communication in the workplace.
2. Implement the Right Tools for Communication at All Sites
There are many different options when it comes to virtual communication. Doing the research into the advantages and disadvantages for each can set you up for success and improve communication and efficiency in the long run. Some video calling options include Zoom, Skype, Lumen, and Microsoft Teams. Some work chat options are Slack, Microsoft Teams, Chanty, and Bitrix24. Your team may settle on one or two of these to utilize on site and between sites. Video check-ins allow for a personal touch while chat tools can create quick answers, removing the informality of emails. Implementing too many communication tools could produce the opposite effect, leaving team members unsure what channel to utilize. This will eliminate redundancy and save time repeating the same information between sites and management.
3. Standardize Operating Procedures
There should be a single source for each process and procedure. Having multiple different copies or each site with their own set of rules can lead to confusion and inefficiency. This includes manuals, employee handbooks, and other procedural documents. All sites should have access to the same documents to share with employees, which can be implemented through the cloud or shared server.
4. Use the Right Technology
Having the right, up-to-date technology is monumental in simplifying communication between sites and keeping an engaged, efficient workplace. You can have a great team and effective communication in place, but lacking in the technological arena can render your team frustrated and ineffective. Important technology needs range from the right devices to the right software. Doing the necessary research and testing will pay off in the long run. The productivity alone saved when the right technology is utilized can easily pay for the upgrade. According to a study by ManagerComplete, $62.4 million is the annual cost on average for poor communication in medium to large size companies.
5. Hire the Right Partner
Tired of communicating with multiple different providers for all of your telecom, internet, and utility needs? You’re not alone!
When you hire Verify! to be your one source of communication for all of your telecom, internet, and cellular needs, you free up your team to focus on their expertise while we deliver on ours.
