briefback communication

Communication in the military happens in three steps: The leader gives orders, the subordinate reflects those orders back, and then the leader clarifies what may have been misunderstood. "We are in world where most communication is one way," says [retired Lt. Gen. Frank] Kearney.

"Email is a classic example. We make assumptions that people understand our intentions, but just because you've sent an email doesn't mean that people have read it, much less understood it. With three-way communication, you clear things up easier and faster." 

This communication style, called a "briefback" in the military, requires the leader to articulate and listen. Kearney says it's a leader's job to communicate the mission and also to make sure it's understood and incorporated into the organization's "battle rhythm." If you listen at all levels of the business, you'll know what's being communicated, he says.


Jenna Goudreau

A 3-star general shares his top leadership lessons. Business Insider. 11/11/2015