Ever work at a place that could use better communication? Why do most people chuckle when I ask that at seminars?

Better communication offers huge potential for enhanced productivity and morale, but it often remains an untapped resource.

Here’s five ways to ensure your company/organization isn’t missing out:

1- Accept its importance.
Management must place a high priority on its value and think about creating a strong culture, not applying band aid solutions.

2- Get into the Heads of Audiences.
Communication isn’t about telling your employees stuff. It’s about engagement, about learning from each other. Make clear what is in it for them.

3- Feedback
Ask your audiences what they think, frequently, and allow them to give anonymous feedback. Share the results with them.

4- Practice
Being interesting is a skill, work at it. Set benchmarks for progress.

5- Passion
Bill Gates once said, “The thing I do best is share my enthusiasm.” Of all his skills, he points to enthusiasm as a core business asset. You must believe in your mission, and live it. Others are noticing.

The writer is a former TV news anchor who has conducted business seminars and one-on-one-coaching for the past 13 years. Don’t hesitate to contact him for help.