Overview
The aim
To avoid situations in which employees spread rumours to fill the gap left by a lack of formal communication.
About the programme
People do need to know what is going on, especially if there's something afoot that could affect them personally. And once the rumour mill starts grinding it's very difficult to stop - and even harder to correct any misinformation once it has gained currency.
This humorous programme shows what can happen when people suspect the worst. One of the largest customers of a fictional company has called in the receivers; the MD has made contingency plans and is confident that new contracts will forestall the need for compulsory redundancies.
The message that managers were to pass on was one of reassurance, but the production head doesn't brief his team properly and their fears mount, fuelled by the fact that people in other departments seem to know more than they do.
Only when a key member of staff hands in his notice does he realise his mistake and acknowledge the importance of structured communication.
Everyday settings and realistic situations demystify the concept of internal communications, showing that potential problems can be averted by taking steps such as: achieving a professional communications process; holding regular team meetings; and encouraging staff to contribute ideas.
The key outcomes
-Increases healthy internal communication between managers and teams
-Encourages staff to be confident and loyal, increasing productivity
-Puts a stop to rumours that can be bad for business
Training resources include
Video (28 mins)
Course leader's guide (PDF)
Delegate worksheets
Powerpoint slides
Self-study workbook
Information
A Video Arts production featuring John Cleese, Peter Capaldi and Geraldine James. Release date: 1996
