Communication Policy

Six Seconds’ community members are committed to spreading positive change and modeling the skills of emotional intelligence.  Everyone involved in the organization is expected to exercise care and respect to ensure that their communication represents these ideals.  Specifically:

(a) Resolve problems directly with the individuals involved (no “end runs”);

(b) Use respectful and supportive communication (no “killer statements”);

(c) Respond promptly (within 48 hours);

(d) Maintain professional discretion, keep confidences (eliminate gossip).

 

a)  When an issue arises, the person will communicate directly with the others concerned.  If someone does not follow this principle and comes to you as a third party, it is also your responsibility to follow this principle and remind and/or support that person to speak directly with the person concerned.  If, in a timely way, one does not raise an issue with those involved, then s/he needs to let go of the issue.

b) We recognize that words have emotional impact which has a real and significant effect on others' wellbeing as well as performance.  Even when we disagree, we need to remember that we are collaborators working together and communicate with compassion and respect.

c) While it is not always possible to answer a question completely, at a minimum we will respond and say, "I got your message, I will reply by ___(date)."  In some circumstances colleagues may be traveling, on vacation, or out of touch, and we all understand there will be exceptions.  So, when we don't get a reply, we'll proactively remind the person.

d) There certainly will be times we disagree, but we'll "wash our laundry in private" and work to resolve the disagreements.  We won't share information that we've been told, or can reasonably be expected to know, is confidential.  Sometimes this means one of our colleagues won't share full information with us, and we need to trust that they're doing their best to balance honesty and discretion.