Let’s be honest: effective communication isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have
for success in strategic management. Have you ever sat in a meeting, nodding along
while your mind drifts to other priorities? Or worse, left a meeting feeling confused
about what next steps were required? You’re not alone.
Mastering communication excellence can make the difference between a project that
soars and one that flops. This skill isn’t just essential for leaders, but for all team
members, especially in shared services where collaboration is key.
Why Communication Matters in Shared Services
In the shared services industry, we live and breathe collaboration. Different teams
come together, each with unique skill sets and insights, all aimed at driving
operational efficiency. When done right, this alignment becomes a powerhouse of ideas.
But communication gaps can easily turn that powerhouse into a fallout zone.
Think about it: every time you’ve faced a challenge, communicating effectively could
have made a world of difference. Here’s what I’ve learned over my 20+ years of
experience in shared services:
- Active listening is vital. Sometimes, we’re so eager to share our perspective
that we forget to truly listen. Listening opens the door to understanding. - Clarity is king. Be precise in your language. When discussing even simple tasks,
clear instructions save time and reduce frustration. - Always keep it open. Encourage feedback not just from your leaders, but from
your entire team. It creates a culture where everyone feels valued.
Building a Culture of Communication
Creating a communicative environment isn’t just good practice—it’s essential. Here’s
how you can foster this atmosphere:
- Start with transparency. Share information openly about goals, challenges, and
successes. - Be approachable. Stage regular catch-ups or open forums to encourage team members
to voice thoughts and concerns. - Utilize technology. Tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams make it easy to share quick
updates and feedback. - Celebrate communication wins. Acknowledge when communication leads to
breakthrough moments or efficiencies.
Enhancing Your Own Communication Skills
Now, how do you become that champion of communication within your shared services
environment? Here are some simple yet effective strategies:
- Practice active listening: It’s not just about hearing words.
Give your full attention, nod, and respond accordingly. - Be concise: We all have busy schedules. Get to the point and
eliminate fluff in your conversations. - Tailor your message: Know your audience—adjust your style and
language to resonate with whoever you’re communicating with. - Seek feedback: Ask others how you can improve. It shows you
value their opinions and helps you grow.
Real-World Examples of Communication Excellence
Let’s throw it back to a personal experience. I once led a shared service initiative at a
global corporation. We were tasked with streamlining operations across multiple
locations. The challenge? Different teams spoke different languages—figuratively, of
course.
Our first challenge was getting everyone on the same page. I initiated a strategy where
team leads facilitated knowledge-sharing workshops. It wasn’t just about sharing
tasks; it was about creating a common understanding.
Fast forward six months, and we not only reduced errors by 30% but also boosted team
morale. Clear, open communication transformed everything.
The Role of Leaders in Fostering Communication
As leaders, we hold tremendous power in cultivating a culture of communication. Here’s
what we can do:
- Lead by example. Show your team what effective communication looks like.
- Encourage dialogue. Make it clear that team members can express their ideas and
concerns without fear. - Provide resources. Offer training sessions on communication skills regularly.
- Track progress. Regularly assess how communication is impacting your team’s
performance.
Measuring Communication Effectiveness
So how do you know if your efforts are paying off? Measure, reflect, refine:
- Conduct regular surveys to understand how team members feel about internal
communication. - Analyze project outcomes. If communication is strong, you’ll see better results.
- Hold retrospectives. What worked? What didn’t? This self-reflection is crucial for
growth.
Conclusion: The Takeaway
Mastering communication excellence is more than just a professional skill. It’s about
fostering connections, creating efficiencies, and ultimately driving success in strategic
management.
When we prioritize effective communication in our shared services operations, we pave
the way for transformative change. So, start implementing these strategies today, and
watch your team thrive.
For more insights on shared services transformation and leadership, check out
THEGBSEDGE blog. This blog, started by me,
Vikrant Aglawe, and filled with experience and insights, is a fantastic resource for
anyone in the shared services industry.
