Culture Change RX

Culture Bytes: Shift From Chaotic to Consistent Communication

Sue Tetzlaff Season 1 Episode 12

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In this episode, Sue discusses the communication challenges faced by leaders and employees in organizations. She highlights the problem of communication not being received by the intended recipients, leading to frustration and confusion. Sue introduces the concept of 'splatter' as a common mistake made by leaders, where they try to communicate important information through multiple channels, resulting in a moving target and information overload. She emphasizes the need for a specific and consistent communication plan, with one channel and timing for each type of communication. Sue provides an example of a hospital CEO who sends a consistently timed monthly email update on strategic goals, demonstrating the effectiveness of consistent and timely communication.

Episode Insights and Takeaways

Communication challenges often arise when information is not received or understood by the intended recipients.

  • The 'splatter' approach, where leaders use multiple channels to communicate important information, can lead to confusion and information overload.
  • The opposite of “splatter” is to streamline and simplify and get very specific about what our communication methods are and the timing of them.
  • Having a specific and consistent communication plan, with one channel and timing for each type of communication, can help overcome communication challenges.


13th Annual Healthcare Executive Forum - June 18 (afternoon) and June 19 (morning)
High Reliability, Just Culture & Psychological Safety Made Simple focuses on breaking down these critical concepts into practical, actionable strategies tailored for senior leaders in small and rural healthcare settings. 

 🎟 Event Registration & Details

13th Annual Healthcare Executive Forum - June 18 (afternoon) and June 19 (morning)
High Reliability, Just Culture & Psychological Safety Made Simple focuses on breaking down these critical concepts into practical, actionable strategies tailored for senior leaders in small and rural healthcare settings. 

 🎟 Event Registration & Details

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