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OK, and now a little insight into the most difficult thing we do and the oldest problem for construction leaders…communication!" How can something so old, like communication, continue to take its toll on so many of us in leadership?

"Can we talk?"

Sooner, rather than later, you'll give instruction to employees on a particular task ONLY to have them begin by doing the opposite of what you instructed. You'll say, "Didn't I tell you to do this?" and they'll respond, "Yes!" And then you'll ask, "Then why didn't you do it this way?" Which will have them responding, "We thought you meant this!"

Before you begin to question your own sanity, here are eight thoughts that might put more consistency and accuracy into your communication.

Rule #1: Don't assume understanding. This sounds easy but in the busy schedule of our day it is just too easy to rip off a list of duties or directions, assuming that those listening are just as focused as you, only to find the opposite later in the day.

Rule #2: Check out your listener's current "MFL." Your listener's "MFL" stands for current "mood for listening." Really! I have found that some guys (and gals) are just not in the mood for listening. Sometimes this mood is emotionally related and sometimes it's the time-of-day related. Now, I'm not suggesting we have to cater to every whim of our workers but if we don't cater just a little we might just continue our communication disconnection. Some listeners are sharp as a tack early in the morning. Some are more receptive just prior to beginning a new project or task. Make some mental notes as to when is the best time for them to receive and retain what was said.