A weird title.
But it’s so true. Do I stop where my fringe is supposed to be? Do I keep going? Problems, problems…
This reminds me of the quote by George Bernard Shaw:
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it is finished”
So, like my fringe, where should a communication stop?
With key topics, people often send too few communications. You know the sort of thing – “well, I sent one email about this three months ago – they should’ve changed behaviour by now.”
But changing people’s habits is hard. One email won’t cut it. People need constant reminders.
Of course, when people do what you’ve asked, reward and recognise, etc.
But, when they forget what you’ve said (and they will), ask how you can help them remember. Remind them regularly. Send follow-ups. If it’s important enough, refer to it in their 121s… anything that’s more than ‘one and done’.
And if you see them continue to struggle, keep encouraging them.
After all, I’ve yet to see a parent say to their toddler who falls after taking their first step, “well, you’re clearly never going to be a walker.”
Given all this, how many times should you communicate an important message?
Well, like a bald man wondering where to stop washing his face, there is no right answer. But you can pretty-much guarantee that you’ll need to remind them more than never.
Action Point
Which people aren’t doing what you’ve asked them to do?
Find the best way to remind them, so they get it right next time.