In situations where growing pains are occurring, there are likely multiple issues that should be addressed immediately. However, the first one that needs to be addressed must be fixing all communication channels. This way, you can quickly and efficiently identify all of the existing problems, making sure that you and your team are on the same page each step of the way.
Most likely, internal and external communications are in a state of complete disarray. However, it is important that you fix your internal channels first (as fast as possible), then immediately examine what needs to be done in fixing all of your external communication channels. Consider the following points while working to fix these issues:
Identify: Quickly try to identify all of the pain points, as well as what the corresponding root causes are. While the root causes might take a little time to identify, most likely, your conversations will quickly point out to you what the root causes of the problems are.
Examine: Study carefully but from the 30,000 foot view. It is important that you see how everything fits together at this stage, especially since this view might help bring problems more clearly into focus. Potential fixes at this point could be ruled out as incorrect, while poor ideas might actually look like a possible solution if modified.
Strategize: What are all of the fixes that you need to undertake in order to address the challenges with your communication channels? Furthermore, what are some effective, long lasting solutions? If growth is a potential once you get through these challenges, then will these changes be sufficient to accommodate that?
Formulate: At the end of your strategy sessions, begin to articulate a clear plan moving forward. Be detailed and thorough in every step of this process. One key area to address: internal communication solutions might require you to train your employees. Be sure to include any necessary training sessions with your plans.
Implement: Take great care to get this done in a timely as well as a thorough manner. Since you are working to address breakdowns in communication, make sure that everyone has a clear understanding of what you are trying to do. Consider having written policies that are posted for everyone to see.
Monitor: How is everything going? Most likely, you will get all of the big problems. It is possible that you will miss something. If you are seeing minor issues, then definitely try to repeat this process to get them fixed. Of course, it is also possible that some of these issues will work themselves out over time. Therefore, monitor carefully, but unless a major issue emerges, give sufficient time to see what issues (if any) remain.
Solving issues involving communication channels is necessary. It can involve some difficult discussions, especially if your workforce is frustrated. However, these difficult conversations need to happen. What will also help is if the focus is centered on the issues and not be viewed or presented as personal attacks.
In short, communication channels are essential to your organization succeeding. Make sure that you do everything you can to fix these issues. The big reason for this is that all other problems that need to be fixed will require communication channels to be functioning clearly. Even if faulty communication channels are not the biggest problem that your company is facing, not fixing them first will result in making things difficult when trying to fix other problems that your company is facing. If you fix your communication channels first, then you will be able to address other, potentially more complex issues, in a timely manner.