Multiple Channels Multiple Times
I’ve just been reading about the frustrations of a Human Resources manager. He’s tired of having to answer the same questions about benefits over and over again.I understand that, having been on both sides of the issue, both as a consumer of benefits and in communicating about them on behalf of corporate clients. Benefits can be the slippery eels of internal communication.But, to put the issue into context, this is another case of complex communication. In this case, a large volume of information that’s not easy to understand.Descriptions of benefits typically involve a high level of density: in other words, they contain a lot of information in a small amount of ’space’. Many of them resemble insurance policies — long on legal language and short on examples and anecdotes. As a result, the information is accessible to only a small proportion of the whole group.How do you deal with this kind of communication challenge? Multiple channels, multiple times. That means repeating the message many times, and sending it through as many different channels as possible.For example, when one of my clients changed its benefits package to offer more choices, it used this strategy. Collectively, the overall value of the benefits would work out the same for the company. But, individual employees would have to make choices, and in many cases the value of the individual benefits they received would depend on how wisely they made their decisions. In turn, that could lead to the equivalent of ‘buyer’s remorse’ and complaints.The company took a proactive approach to the changeover. It began planning well in advance of the switch, and its preparations included the equivalent of focus groups to identify concerns, questions, and problems.Then, in the month or so before the changeover, it began communicating on several fronts. It held information sessions with employees, it sent each employee an information package, it sent out a special edition of its newsletter, it offered in-house computer programs for calculations and enrollment, and it offered appointments with benefits personnel if employees felt they needed individual counselling.Employees got the information in several formats, and at several different times, greatly increasing the odds that most of them would make informed decisions.The odds that they would understand their choices went up because of different learning styles. And, needless to say, their ability to learn varies from time to time.Some people learn best by reading (and you may be one of them since you’re reading this article). Others may learn more effectively by listening, while yet others do best when they act in some way (like using a computer program).Similarly, you may not be receptive to new information about a benefits program right now because you’re focused on an important meeting later today. Or perhaps you’ll be more interested in the subject after you talk with a friend and colleague at lunch tomorrow.By using multiple channels and multiple times, we provide our readers/listeners/participants with several different learning options. That, in turn, means we increase the odds there will be a time and method that’s optimal for them.
About The Author
Robert F. Abbott writes and publishes Abbott’s Communication Letter. Each week subscribers receive, at no charge, a new communication tip that helps them lead or manage more effectively. Click here for more information: http://www.CommunicationNewsletter.comabbottr@managersguide.com
Previous Articles Highlighter:
How To Change Your Car39s Motor Oil By Stephen Bucaro (1)
You're finished, this is not really a "step". Start the engine and make sure the oil warning light goes off. Look under the vehicle to make sure oil is not leaking out.
What 8 (2)
1: Get Paid Now Let’s take a look at the most obvious area: accounts receivable. What do your receivables do for you when they are not being paid? While your profit margins may look stellar if you have a lot of orders, you have essentially loaned all of your clients the amounts of your invoices—until they decide to pay you.
What Is A Secured Loan (3)
The interest rates on secured loans are often considerably lower than those offered on unsecured loans. A secured loan will enable you to get your hands on money that would otherwise take a long time to save up, allowing you the freedom to spend it on whatever you want.
Where Is Our Largest Technological Plan (4)
He was the owner of the first minicomputer factory in South America and Consultant for the U.S. Government in several contracts. Now is the CEO of the organization http://mba-open-university.net.
Never Get Lost Again - Map Reading Is A Thing Of The Past By Niall Kennedy (5)
If I've noticed any roads I want to avoid on the way, traffic jams for instance, I can specify avoiding them, and the RoadMate has new directions for me right away.All in all, it's a tool I wouldn't want to be without.
BOOK REVIEW Performance Of Financial Institutions Efficiency Innovation Regulation By Patrick T Harker And Stavros A Zenios (6)
Since 1991 he has been based in the island of Cyprus. Andy was a financial correspondent for eight years at the Cyprus Financial Mirror where he wrote articles on business and accounting related issues to a non-technical audience.He is the author of eBooks: How to write and Publish Your Own With a Shoestring Budget http://www.budgetebook.comCBMallakgeorge@cytanet.com.cy
Virtual Assistance Higher Productivity (7)
Whether the company is a small business or a large corporation, as it grows so does the amount administrative tasks that need to be carried out on a daily basis.For some companies, all that is required to alleviate the overload is to empty the in-boxes, file the paperwork and clean off the desks.
The Art Of Being Specific Encourages Focus (8)
Being specific has often been difficult for me. I like to dream big and incorporate everything all at once. That is why going from a hobby to a career with Rothline Entertainment (http://www.rothline.com) was more difficult than it needed to be.
5 Things You Must Do To Fail In Business (9)
Even though things can happen quickly online, it takes a lot of testing and trying of what works for your business.2 You must do it all alone. It takes a team effort to make any business successful.
Why And How To Work With A Consultant (10)
We specialize in promotions, online communication, distribution and the creation of multimedia and Internet tools. Leave Home also supports marketing with traditional media formats and personal communication. We work to develop solutions that support healthy growth for our clients' business and sustainable tourism for the host communities and environments.(Leave Home, tourism marketing consultants)bryan@leave-home.com
Tips For FirstTime Homebuyers (11)
News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial "fill" items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services.
9 Things You Must Do To Maximize Your Chances Of Obtaining A Small Business Loan (12)
What kind of business you are in etc.6. 3 Years financial statements. You will need to present quality financial information from your accounting software, preferably signed off by your accountant or tax advisor.7.
High Interest Rate Auto Loans (13)
I'm going to assume that your statement as to your good credit is accurate. If that's true, then you do indeed need to fix this. 2. Since you only need $5000, with the intention of paying it off in 2 years or less, I don't think you should look for a refinance auto loan or a refinance on your home.
Are You Set Up For Success (14)
And do it now!In conclusion, let me say that although these three key elements are all very easily done, doing them does not guarantee success. There is another intangible, YOU!
Show Your Prospects How Much Enthusiasm You Have For Your Product And Business (15)
1. Show your prospects how much enthusiasm you have for your product and business. If you're convincing enough, they will be enthusiastic too.2. End your sales letter or ad copy with a strong closing.
Internet Provides Wealth Of Information On Car Maintenance By ARA Content (16)
But if you're like many drivers, you may not know enough to recognize a problem when you see one. For instance, do you know the telltale signs of a weakening battery?
Business Partners Marital Partners Will The Marriage Survive Part 2 (17)
You might want to start on a part-time basis, and grow from there. Research the business carefully, make sure there is a market, and the competition is not overwhelming.
Why Choose A Secured Loan (18)
You do not have to own your own home outright to be able to take out a secured loan; if you have a mortgage you can put the proportion of the home that you own up as security.
Avoiding Credit Card Traps (19)
Be sure to use the company’s preprinted envelope when sending your payment. These envelopes allow the pre-printed bar code to be scanned by the post office so that it can be delivered more efficiently.If you’ve counted on those few extra days from the time you mail your check and the time the check clears your bank, beware!
3 Tips For A Great Summer Developing Life Business While Having A Blast (20)
Choose certain times for housework. This also teaches your kids to make time for work and play as both are important. If you can integrate the two...all the better.
Newer Articles Highlighter:
The Best Things In Life Are Rarely Things (1)
Imagine the free time we’d have in our minds, dreaming of what inspires us...rather than wasting time attempting to please everyone else.I suppose the lesson to be learned here is that this freedom can be ours.
Drivers Of SUVs Saving Big Money With Diesel Engines By ARA Content (2)
"Over 30 percent of the passenger cars in Europe are now diesel, and the main reason is fuel economy," said Charbonneau. "The Big Three know fuel economy is keenly important here in North America." Currently in the United States, diesel engines are an option over the standard gasoline engines, adding a few thousand dollars to the cost of a new vehicle.
Bankruptcy Basics (3)
A bankruptcy will not erase most child support, alimony, fines, taxes and some types of student loans.Most financial experts agree that a bankruptcy should always be the last resort used for managing your debts.
Retreads The Highest And Best Use For A Worn Tire By ARA Content (4)
When you add these savings into the natural resources that are saved and the positive impact this has on the environment, using retreads is a win, win solution for both the transportation industry and the environment," said Martin Bozarth, executive director of the International Tire & Rubber Association.
South Beach Diet Effects On Sales (5)
Companies involved in the food industry have also been feeling the South Beach Diet effects: some of the products in great demand have brought profit while sales for high-carbs, diet unfriendly ones have drastically fallen.
After The Sale By Kevin Schappell (6)
There is nothing worse than getting a flat tire in a new car and having to struggle to change it the first time. Accessorize! It's your car and it should make a statement about you.
Smart Choices How To Hire The Best (7)
Conducting a job interview looks easier than it is. And that’s the problem. According to studies based on the employment records of thousands of management and line employees, little or no correlation exists between the positive reports that emerge from the typical job interview and the job performance of the candidates who receive those glowing reports.
Your Administration TeamLook After Them (8)
She had a life too. Her boss on the other hand was fortunate to have a a wife who didn't work and took care of their personal life. Prior to Jenny being in this role, there had been three other people who had worked in her position, and all three had lasted less than three months.
Writing One Or Two Line Ads (9)
You have to think like your customer. Would you like to save $122.00? Of course you would. We are all looking to save money, especially in today's economy.
Are Mortgages A Risky Business (10)
In the case of a borrower finding that they are in this situation they should be congratulated for being better at guessing than the company’s advisors. On the other hand, a borrower tied in to a contract at say 10% for several years who then finds that rates have dropped to 5%, will not exactly be celebrating.
The 8 Biggest Mistakes When Designing Portfolios And How To Avoid Them (11)
Taxes can have a severe negative impact on your net return. As a result, balance tax and investment considerations, but remember that suitability and appropriateness of an investment take precedence over tax consequences.
New Energy Bill Reducing Our Dependence On Foreign Oil (12)
AlphaProfit Investments, LLC is not responsible for any errors or omissions herein. Past performance is neither an indication of nor a guarantee for future results. No part of this document may be reproduced in any manner without written permission of AlphaProfit Investments, LLC.
Your Worst Enemy To Successful Investing The Media (13)
In the same breath, the experts are telling us to invest for the long term. Well, I can't figure out how to do both: be in the latest hot fund, and hold what I've got for the long haul.
Networking Tips Getting An 8 (14)
Will you have prospects call to find out more about your products/services? Will you provide information when they call and then follow-up with printed materials, or will you direct them to a source?After you have decided what you want the 800 number to do, put yourself in your customer's place, and be sure you are meeting all their needs.
Workplace Fitness A Gym Full Of Useful Advice For Continual Learning (15)
When beginning any new behavior, we all know that rewards are important. Stickers are cheap and visual. Whatever the reward, it's the consistency of the giving that matters.
Business After The Iraqi War (16)
We, inevitably, will have to pick up the majority of this bill.The United States’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is also not in good shape. It has trickled down to an annual GDP growth that is expected to reach only 3.1% and both France and Germany have recently downgraded their annual GDP growth forecasts to 2.4% and 2.0% respectively.
18 Tips For Saving Money On Gasoline By Fisher Swanson (17)
17. When the price is sky high, don't fill up. Wait for the price to go down before you fill up your tank. Filling up your tank when the price is peaking lets gas companies know that you are willing to pay ridiculous prices for gasoline.
Ten Tips To Get Started Writing Your Book (18)
Once you know them, write a letter and tell them why you are writing your book and what benefits it will bring them. Dear over-50 reader, "I'm writing Passion At Any Age to help you live life full throttle--with more abundance, joy, and meaning." 5.
Your Organization Is Only As Good As Your People (19)
On the other hand, people will be loyal to an organization when they feel respect and friendship, even if the pay is low.Render Unto CaesarOf course, the primary focus of every group must be on fulling the purpose of the organization.
You Deserve To Retire Early (20)
That is entirely possible. But, when you have made it possible to replace your current income from some other means, you can retire and pursue your dreams full time.