b'ENGAGE 2024 | VALUED VOICEWhat Does This Mean?Low communication equals low productivity. Both managers and employees dont feel fully informed about the things that impact their roles. Big-picture communication is encouraged when it comes to defining a future vision, but it cant be at the expense of day-to-day information and details. People need adequate information to maximize productivity.Wearing rose-colored glasses doesnt help. Even though leaders may feel as though they are building consistent and effective relationships, employee sentiments tell us a different story. People still arent comfortable being themselves in the workplace. Beyond feelingcomfortablebeingthemselves,peoplealsowanttoknowtheiropinionsaremeaningfuland impactful.Innovation relies on valued voices. When people are afraid to share their thoughts and ideas, it has a direct impact on your bottom line. A lack in diversity of minds, thoughts, ideas, and approaches hinders growth and innovation. Oftentimes its those who are the most difficult to hear who have the best of ideas.Are we all rowing in the same direction? Departments arent working together or communicating as well as they could be, and in some cases, its a serious problem. Friction between departments is not uncommon, but its a problem that has to be dealt with right away to avoid a toxic outcome.32'