I originally trained as a physiotherapist. I worked both in private practice and hospitals treating patients. Their lives were sometimes in my hands as I could do harm. In South Australia, we did neck manipulations, that if done incorrectly, could kill. We had to assess risk and be able to justify every decision. No two patients were the same as no two people are the same, so we needed to ask the right questions and assess the situation. We needed to adapt our approach and treatment based on their circumstances, what would motivate our patients/clients, and their limitations. We constantly checked progress and modified treatment to get results. Because we had a responsibility, we stayed across the latest research and techniques. Applying principles. Focusing on results.
Working in hospitals, I saw what could go wrong if best practice wasn't followed. I saw X-rays of scissors sewn inside people because they hadn't counted the implements before closing. I saw people who couldn't maintain control of bodily functions because a surgeon operated even when it was counter-indicated.
Communicators have a duty of care
Stress in the workplace is on the rise.
As communication professionals, yes we need to be engaging and creative, but let's not forget that we also have a responsibility to our people. Restructures communicated badly can cause distress. Safety campaigns communicated creatively but not clearly can cause misunderstanding (yes it is possible to be clear and creative!) Or, complex campaigns machine language translated without humans checking can be confusing for employees at best.
A quick google revealed plenty of research including a study by Grammarly last year: Poor Communication Causes Work Stress—Here’s Why You Need to Address It Now.
"In fact, stress was the most-cited outcome of poor communication among workers, with 50% of workers indicating poor communication increases stress. Most workers (69%) can think of concrete examples from the past year when unclear communication left them feeling anxious or stressed, and it has a ripple effect: Workers report that poor communication lowers their confidence (30%), decreases job satisfaction (34%), and makes them consider finding a new job (22%)."
Researchers from the University of Nottingham’s Schools of Psychology and Medicine analyzed survey data from 142 employees to explore the 'dark side' of digital work. They found that employees who fear missing out on information and feel overwhelmed by too much information are more likely to experience stress and burnout. Released on 9 August 2024, both FOMO and information overload can be reduced by good communication practice.
Best practice is a good place to start
As professional, corporate communicators we do have immense power to make a difference. Let's use it wisely and make considered decisions. Let's start with best practice and adapt, especially if there is high risk to our people and business. But there's always room to play. Experiment, innovate. Let's focus on great results for our organisation and people.
🍀 Monique
Disclaimer: Image of doctor is AI generated.
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