Social networking websites like Facebook enable people to communicate easily with friends, family and colleagues. They can also document feelings of anger and resentment with work.

The following screenshot reveals a conversation between some Facebook friends. Names have been hidden and photos changed to protect the identify of those involved:

The discussion starts with a proposal for a night out on the town on October 9th. It ends when one participant notes that he cannot commit to anything without checking his work schedule, which apparently his supervisors have yet to announce as of October 1st.

It’s always difficult to know what is actually happening based on limited information, but any number of factors could be at play. Perhaps the schedule has already been defined, but there has been a delay in publication. Perhaps a sudden change in personnel or availability has caused the posted schedule to be revoked. The sarcastic tone of the final comment, however, implies this is a recurring problem. The employee is neither surprised nor sympathetic. He’s simply frustrated that he can’t make plans for Friday night a week in advance.

Organizations need to hear these kinds of comments from stakeholders. Individuals should be empowered to discuss opportunities to improve satisfaction and productivity, and to actually implement positive changes to their work environment. For more information, contact Slaughter Development. We love to help companies improve employee communication and overall effectiveness.

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