If a leader can't get a message across clearly and motivate others to act on it, then having a message doesn't even matter. Communicate downward to subordinates with at least the same care and attention as you communicate upward to superiors. When people admit that they didn't keep you informed, let them know that you don't want this kind of protection . A couple of strong reactions by the manager, and a subordinate learns to make sure the boss gets the word all of it. Talking is the natural way to do business.
Writing is great for keeping records and putting down details, but talk generates ideas.
Great things come from out luncheon meetings which consist of a sandwich, a cup of soup, and a good idea or two. You can have brilliant ideas, but if you can't get them across, your ideas won't get you anywhere. Lincoln eased tense moments with bawdy stories, and often poked fun at himself and history honors him for this human quality. A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done. He must see to it that his subordinates are trained in accordance with the latest requirements.