7 leadership communication mistakes that could make or break your business

The opinions expressed by entrepreneurs contributors are their own.

Communication can make or break your business. Poorly delivered messages can lead to confusion, disorganization and a lower bottom line. On the other hand, effective leadership communication can create a sense of certainty and unity among staff, resulting in a more productive and profitable organization. To ensure your communications have the intended effect, avoid making these seven common mistakes.

Mistake #1: Not communicating at all

One of the most common mistakes leaders make is not communicating with their team. This can take many forms, from failing to inform employees of company changes or developments to not giving clear instructions about tasks or projects. Poor communication creates an environment of uncertainty and confusion, which can lead to low morale.

How to fix this: Make sure you communicate with your team regularly, whether that means having weekly meetings, sending out regular updates, or just being available to answer questions. Establishing and maintaining clear lines of communication will ensure everyone is on the same page and working towards common goals.

Related: 14 Proven Ways to Improve Your Communication Skills

Mistake #2: communicating too much

While it's important to keep your team informed, bombarding them with information can have the opposite effect of what you intended. Trying to cram too much into an update or email can overwhelm employees and prevent them from processing everything. This can lead to apathy or even resentment towards company communications.

How to fix this: Be concise and focused on your messages, highlighting only the most important information. If you have a lot to communicate, consider breaking it up into smaller chunks or sending it over a period of time. Employees will be more likely to engage with messages that are easy to digest and tailored to their needs. Make it a standard practice to ask employees how they like to be communicated. In some cases, employees may prefer and appreciate a phone call or an in-person meeting. You can't know if you don't ask!

Mistake #3: Being inconsistent

Another common mistake leaders make is being inconsistent in their communications. This can take the form of sending irregular updates, skipping team meetings, or changing project expectations without warning. This inconsistency can create confusion and frustration among employees, who may feel they cannot rely on their boss for guidance.

How to fix this: Try to maintain a consistent communication schedule, whether that means having weekly meetings or sending out regular updates. Let your team know ahead of time if there are any changes to the schedule or expectations. This will help employees feel they can rely on you for consistent guidance and leadership.

Related: The Role of Effective Communication in Entrepreneurial Success

Mistake #4: Being vague

When communicating with your team, it's important to be clear and specific about what you expect. Vague messages can lead to confusion and misunderstandings, which ultimately hurts productivity. For example, simply telling employees to "be more productive" is unlikely to result in real change. Being inclusive or respectful doesn't mean you can't be honest or direct in your style of communication, but it does mean that honest, reciprocal communication should...