not understand the mission or key tasks to be performed. Leaders must
encourage this communication and take the time to explain so that every
member of the team understands.
Simple: this principle isn’t limited to the battlefield. In the business
world, and in life, there are inherent complexities. It is critical to keep
plans and communication simple. Following this rule is crucial to the
success of any team in any combat, business or life.
APPLICATION TO BUSINESS
“I don’t have any idea what this means,” the employee said as he held up
a piece of paper that was supposed to explain his monthly bonus. “Point
eight-four,” he continued. “I have no idea what that number means. What
I do know is that my bonus for this month was $423.97. But I have no
idea why. Last month I made $279 bucks. Don’t know why. I did the
same amount of work; produced about the same amount of units. But for
some reason, I got shortchanged last month. What the hell?”
“Are they trying to get you to focus on one aspect of your job?” I
inquired.
“Honestly, I have no idea,” he replied. “I mean, I’m happy for the
bonus, but I don’t know what they want me to focus on.”
I spoke to several other assembly technicians in this division on a
visit to the manufacturing plant of a client company. Over and over
again, I heard similar answers. People weren’t sure what they should be
focused on. They had no idea how their bonuses were calculated or why
they were being rewarded or penalized in pay each month.
The next day I met with the chief engineer and plant manager. They
were both extremely smart and passionate about the company and took a
lot of pride in their products. They also recognized that there was a
disconnect.