Of all the obstacles business owners hurdle every day, one of the most problematic is communicating with employees. The way a message should be delivered, whom it should be delivered to, what it says and the best time to deliver it all factor into whether the message will be understood or adhered to.

Being in charge of an organization doesn't automatically keep you from being concerned about sending a message, especially if it's negative. But if sending negative messages causes you anxiety, take comfort in this: Most employees say they would rather receive bad news from their boss than none at all. 

That's because not knowing what the boss thinks causes an employee a great deal of anxiety. This uncertainty can lead to errors, decreased morale, low productivity, absenteeism and turnover.

To immediately improve the quality of employee communication, follow these 10 tips:

1. Be negative privately and positive publicly.

2. Don't yell. 

3. Be specific, not general. 

4. Speak from the heart. 

5. Communicate often. 

6. Be positive first.

7. Talk about change if it is needed. 

8. Find something good to say to everyone. 

9. Listen first, then comment.

10. Do it early. 

Consistent and effective communication dramatically improves the way your entire business works--get the message?

For the complete article by David G. Javitch, Ph.D.