This is not a criticism of those members, it is simply an observation of how a breakdown in communication can be catastrophic for both company culture and personal development.
I found that there were two almost universal truths in these situations:
- Most companies have clear hierarchies
- Most people find it hard to ‘communicate upwards’ – either because they lack confidence, or because they do not feel they are on an equal footing with their managers
In hierarchical organizations, breakdowns in communication like this are the norm. And when workers stay silent, never airing their problems with the decision-makers above them, it is inevitable that stress, anxiety, and resentment will start to build.
”Often the situations people found themselves in were because of poor communication.”
Managers are not mind-readers, so they usually continue on with the same processes and behaviors while their employees continue to suffer. By the time a Labor Law advisor is brought into help with disputes, it is often too late, and any chance of building back trust in the employer/employee relationship is gone.
I found this type of work frustrating from time to time – even if, at times, it was hugely rewarding to help people when they were at their most vulnerable.
Still, I had worked for the union for eight years, and I knew it was time for a change.
Recruitment as a tool for positive communication
I don’t think I have arrived at my new career in recruitment by chance. It is such a complete reversal from my last job, allowing me to work with people when they are at their most positive and optimistic.
Many people actively looking for a new job are excited for the next chapter in their career. Now, the responsibility is on ME to help them make the most of it. Now I REALLY have to communicate! And that communication must work both ways.
Recruitment, when it is done responsibly, is such a privilege. We are connecting people, and helping dreams become reality. Great recruitment builds companies where individuals can thrive, and cultures where colleagues don’t just work for financial reward, but genuinely care for one another and celebrate collective success.
The company I work for, Mpya Digital, and others like us, have a ‘teal’ way of working that is ‘prestige-less’. In other words, it is communication WITHOUT hierarchy.
Colleagues in any role are encouraged to bring problems or challenges to the wider group where they can be discussed freely and without prejudice or fear of the consequences. And because they are no longer ‘communicating upwards’, they can be open and honest in what they say.
Recruitment in this environment is so rewarding. It is not necessarily about finding the person with the best skills for any given job, it is more about compatibility. If we find someone we believe in, they have to believe in us too. It is an unwritten contract that both parties sign up for, and ultimately it drives better communication, and fantastic company cultures.
Having spent eight years working with people whom, from time to time, believed themselves to be powerless, and afraid to speak out to their superiors, it is so inspiring to be able to help people thrive in their new roles.
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