Tips for Communicating
Communication is the engine that turns the gears and wheels of the RCM program. The RCM’s observations, measurements and data, insights, and achievements must be shared with the organization. Without good communication the program will likely be far less effective.
A lot of your time will be spent asking basic and detailed questions, investigating problems, discussing strategies and options, devising solutions, describing action plans, offering praise and encouragement, and sharing results. These tasks involve frequent interaction with individuals from various levels within your organization. Recruiting and motivating key team members should start during the concept phase. First impressions are critical so be prepared to answer questions or provide more information. Start with key individuals or groups including:
- Top-level management
- Occupants
- Operations and maintenance staff
- Service providers
Develop an effective communication strategy
Key elements:
- Tailor material to your audience and prepare for their questions
- Choose the most effective communication method
- Focus on key points and a “take home message”
Gathering information requires that you ask the right questions. Before visiting administrators, building staff or occupants, familiarize yourself with what they do and some of the technical terms and jargon they may use.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most people are eager to share what they know with others who show a genuine interest. Asking questions and brainstorming with others often leads to creative and practical solutions to complex problems.
One role of the resource conservation manager is to enlist the support of facility operators and occupants in reducing resource use. You can inform and motivate them with regular reporting and timely presentations.
Be prepared: It will save time and enhance your credibility. Expect to explain details beyond your presentation materials, such as the source of the data, the assumptions used for projections, and the broad impacts of recommended actions.
How you communicate is as important as what you communicate. Keep looking for better, more effective ways to deliver information and persuade your audiences.
- See a sample PowerPoint presentation introducing an RCM program