SOUND RELATIONSHIPS

Whether you're the Chief Executive of a corporation or the Chief Cook and Bottle Washer at home, communication is vital.

Talking is the lifeblood of sound relationships. Communication needs to flow from the top down so that everyone knows what, when, where, why and how but if there is no valve allowing freedom of expression from the bottom up, then somebody, somewhere is going to feel isolated and frustrated.

Whether its management not listening to their employees or parents not listening to their children, the result is much the same - when people have no voice, they lose their freedom, they're input is minimal, their ideas fall on deaf ears, there is no team spirit at work and there is no unification of the family unit.

If you are running a company and you never give your employees an opportunity to air their views, you are overlooking the most profitable asset on your balance sheet - your people. They will look after you if you look after them. Moreover, they will tell their family and friends how good you are to work for.

If you are running a family, give your children airtime. They will love and respect you for asking their opinion.

About the Author

Thomas Chalmers is an executive coach. He works with executives, politicians, and entrepreneurs. www.idealifeinternational.com

Michael Imani, Ph.D. is a mind/body expert. He also facilitates executive coaching at the Robinson College of Business at Georgia State University. www.michaelimanicoaching.com