Lost in Translation Part 1

Have you ever played the Paper Tearing Game? It sounds a little hokey, but it really illustrates how each person interprets information differently and how vital an organizational communication strategy is. Here’s how the game works: The facilitator gives each person a sheet of paper and instructs participants to close their eyes and follow directions without asking questions. They are instructed to fold their paper in half, tear off the upper right-hand corner, fold the paper in half again, tear the upper left-hand corner, fold it in half one more time, and tear off the lower right-hand corner. When the team opens their eyes, they will notice no one’s paper looks the same. 

As we work with clients across the country, we have found it interesting that a breakdown in organizational communication tends to be one of the top pain points we see. It also seems to be the first growth barrier that hinders organizations. 

Why? 

• There is no written communication strategy in place. 

• Relationships become strained which exasperates the issue.

• Departments utilize different communication platforms creating siloes. 

• A team outgrows its original communication style, which was often verbal. 

• Type A, conceiver, visionary leaders tend to be fine operating with some level of ambiguity. 

What is impacted? 

• Unity

• Growth 

• Culture 

• Momentum

• Relationships 

• Resource (people/monetary) 

When done right communication: 

• Builds trust 

• Boosts morale

• Removes ambiguity 

• Minimizes misunderstandings 

• Increases a team’s sense of value 

• Moves the organization towards its mission 

We can see the importance of healthy organizational communication and how vital it is in moving an organization towards its mission. Be looking for Season 1, Episode 7 of our Podcast as we continue to unpack this important topic and share some helpful strategies.  

Building executables related to a communication strategy often require outside coaching and support. Setting goals and ensuring they are aligned to your mission can be challenging. Contact us via this form, DM us on Instagram @exo18strategy, or Facebook @exo18llc and let us help you and your team put a strategy in place to help your organization communicate clearly, concisely, and consistently.