Guidelines for Effective Communication
The responsibility for establishing effective communication rests with ALL employees. To create a learning environment characterized by trust, respect, sharing, and open discussion of concerns, everyone is encouraged to act in the manner in which they desire to be treated.
Expectations

Share information (verbal, written, electronic) which can help others.

Assume responsibility for providing adequate background information on issues.

Approach difficult situations in a fact-based, non-personalized manner.

Model the professional behavior you wish to receive.

Meetings (Responsibility of the Chairs)

Ask if the meeting is necessary, or if the objectives can be achieved in another format.

Schedule and publish meetings at least one-semester in advance.

Publish Agendas in advance, with appropriate materials, so members can prepare.

Start and end meetings on time (respect people's time and other commitments).

Assure all members equal time to express opinions.

Invite others to attend meetings on specific topics if they have particular expertise or viewpoints which may be helpful.

It's o.k. (even preferable) to allow a little fun.

Publish Minutes on the web within 5 days of the meeting.
Communication

Be specific and concise. Highlight deadline dates. Make clear who is getting the information, and who to contact if there are questions.

If angry or upset, heed the signals and wait until you have better control of yourself.

Conflict Management

Keep things "issue specific" and don't "keep score" or hold grudges.

Acknowledge that it is o.k. to professionally disagree and still work effectively and with respect.

Focus on concepts and ideas, not personalities.

Listen without interrupting, then summarize what you think the other party said.

Be specific about what you can and cannot