The Power of Clarity: Unleash the True Potential of Workplace Productivity, Confidence, and Empowerment

“Clarity blindness” is slowing companies down and confusing employees, writes consultant Latham (The Clarity Papers) in this candid guide. Businesses often lack clear objectives and priorities, she writes, and without them, workers are perennially stressed, and “as much as 80 percent of employee time is lost to confusion and counterproductive activities.” Employees desperately need well-defined objectives to succeed at their work, and to that end, Latham provides directions for how to break down a process into small, measurable outcomes with a list of decisions that need to be made, and guides leaders through effectively communicating their requests and expectations. For example, just as shouting “call 911!” is more effective than a nonspecific “help!” leaders will get better results by avoiding vague “treadmill” phrases such as “please review” and instead opting for specificity. Employees are sure to recognize the frustrations Latham describes, and her rallying cry that “you are not alone and it’s not your fault” will come as a relief. This no-nonsense guide to cutting through the fog should be required reading for any employee who’s nodded off during an unnecessary status update meeting, and any leader looking to improve productivity. (July)