As I sat and listened to two principals and one business manager describe how the “busy-ness” of the last 3 months had overwhelmed them into not communicating, I was reminded of the power of conversation.
And also of what happens when people stop communicating with each other with respect, appreciation, authenticity, congruency and empathy.
Three months ago I was privileged to attend a planning meeting in which a vision was established for the next 3 years, a plan for the next 12 months and goals for the next 90 days.
Standard stuff – and this is a world-class business.
What I didn’t expect at yesterday’s review was that the business would be “on plan” but that the senior management team would have experienced a serious deterioration in their professional relationships.
The elephant in the room was palpable and rather smelly.
Fortunately:

1. these are highly intelligent and articulate people;
2. they trust each other implicitly and
3. they have worked together for many years and
4. I was there! To facilitate and encourage.

All problems exist in the absence of a good conversation