Aviano Air Base, Italy -- I know that you believe you understand what you think I said, but I'm not sure you realize what you've heard is not what I meant. 

In the Air Force, as in any business, effective communication is essential to success. From front-line supervisors to commanders, communication is a vital, yet all too often neglected, skill. There are literally thousands of books and articles on effective communication on the market with effective tools and techniques to improve your skills.
Here are just a few tips that I have found to be effective: 

· Make sure the message is clear, simple and consistent - As a commander or supervisor, getting your message across to the youngest Airmen can be especially challenging. A lot will be lost in translation as the message works its way down the chain. Conveying your message in a simple and straightforward way will reduce the chance for misinterpretation. 

When presenting information, especially to large groups, ensure you have specific points to convey. Stick to those points and avoid straying off onto tangents. Consistency in your message is also critical. If your Airmen know your priorities and what you stand for they will be empowered to make the right decisions on their own. If you're sending mixed messages, explain them quickly or suffer the consequences. 

· Get the word out as efficiently as possible - Take great pains to reach everyone with a need to know. This is tough in large organizations. Failure could result in a missed suspense or, much worse, give the appearance you are not in the know - which does not exactly inspire confidence in your Airmen. 

While e-mail is usually the most efficient method to communicate to large groups, don't use this as a crutch. Conflicts and delicate matters must be discussed in person or at least by phone. When emotions are involved, e-mail becomes an ineffective vehicle to communicate. 

· Listen, listen, and listen some more - Too often communication is delivered in one direction when it is clearly a two-way street. A very wise senior master sergeant recently reminded me of this principle. Effective communicators take the time to listen to feedback on the information they convey. Listen to those around you, especially SNCOs and veteran leaders. 

One-on-one meetings with your Airmen are also important. Show your subordinates they have your full attention. Talk about their career paths and how you envision them growing in their jobs. 

As a leader, if you want Airmen to act on your decisions, they need to be motivated to do so. The source of that motivation depends on how well you communicate.