Trusted Leader Blog

Everything we do is communication.  And it is no wonder that research studies point to 70% of workplace mistakes being caused by poor communication.

How we start our message often determines the result.

According to Crystal Clear Communication, by Kris Cole, people quickly determine the meaning of our message and whether they will be receptive at the beginning.  We only have a short time to get our messages across:

• 2 minutes when we are face to face
• 30 seconds on the telephone
• 10 - 15 seconds by voice mail.

So the more important the message, the bigger the need to plan what you are going to say.

Since the early 1990's, most companies have got their act together and decreased their workplace injuries (see chart).  After all, it's a no-brainer that workplace safety accidents cost businesses lots of money each year.  And from a human perspective, it's always a good idea to look after people.

How the safety speech is written depends upon it's form of delivery (eg: written speech for the annual report, face to face presentation to staff or video presentation) and the audience. Ideally, the speech is tailored as much as possible to the particular group of workers as this will get more traction.