Monthly Message

by Mark McClanahan

Alignment across the organization is a big deal in running a successful company. As leaders, we must use multiple channels to keep the troops informed and working in the same direction.  These channels often include meetings, emails, intranets and newsletters.

As president of Mosby, I started a new communication tactic earlier this year to help provide employees with better insights into why things are done. At the beginning of each month, I identify a topic relevant to what’s happening in and around the organization. These topics can range from “why numbers are important to companies” to “core values” to “new company objectives” to “why managers are always in meetings.”

I skip a level and take these conversations directly to different teams throughout the company during regularly scheduled meetings. The size of the groups range from three to 15 people. Depending on the scope of the topic, I typically use 20 to 40 minutes of their time to present the monthly message. PowerPoint is optional. I use it when it enhances engagement and avoid it when communication could be hampered.

During this meeting, I make sure there’s plenty of time for questions and comments. Sometimes a topic involves a project that is currently in progress. This allows for employees to see how initiatives develop before they’re released. Based on what employees ask and say, I can often take back some insights that improve the project’s outcome.

Some key benefits to communicating this way include better alignment across the organization, improved employee insight into why things are done, and closer bonds between leadership and the staff.

Mark McClanahan (mmcclanahan@callmosb.com or 314.909.1800) is the president at Mosby Building Arts.