But when it comes to an organization’s communication offerings, employees often feel dazed and confused. They don’t see the value of each vehicle, don’t know how things are organized or how they fit together, and can’t easily find the information they’re looking for. For employees, it’s like being stuck at an endless checkout line in some now-defunct retailer that deserved to die: Bradlees. Caldor. The Wiz. Ames Department Stores.

What’s the problem? Communication is confusing and complex, and employees need to be reminded how the system works—how to get around the store. Think mall map: “You are here. This is where you find the food court.”

Which leads me to Liz’s insight. She writes that, in her organization, a mixture of print and electronic works best, and advocates combining the mix with a "communications commitment—telling employees up front what we're going to send and when we're going to send it—and sticking to the schedule we say we're going to use, they're less likely to overlook our message than they would an unexpected or surprise transmission, especially when the communication isn't directly related to their daily assignments.”

What a great approach to “store” management! It’s clear, it manages employee expectations, and provides great context for communication

How well are you minding your store? Please share your comments, questions and suggestions.