Leaders model the kind of communication closure they want.  Learning does not become living and communication is not complete until behaviors change.  In other words, someone has to do something if communication is going to amount to more than sharing thoughts and ideas&mdash which is okay if that is the expectation. Usually more is required.

Closure is a by-product of clarity.  Last month this article focused on assuring error-free transmission of information.  The next step is action based on what was communicated.  Closure occurs when action follows words, and the person who originated the communication is assured of task completion the communication required.

Here’s how it works: Party A gives information and instruction to Party B.  B articulates a summation back to A to assure accuracy.  B then acts upon what was communicated in a specified timeline and then reports to A upon completion of that action.  Depending on the degree of importance attached to the communication, this closure process assures both parties of accuracy and completion.

What kind of communication closure do you encourage and model on your team?  Demonstrate effective communication techniques and closure activities that show your team how information and action work together.