Quite a few years ago, I worked for a company that supported the Kinko’s branches is southeast Florida.  Later, re-branded FedExKinko’s.  The Kinko’s organization was unique.  Each branch had its own unique personality. The branches were a combination of partnerships and franchises, but those who were part of Kinko’s or worked with them would agree they were different from all other print shops.  One factor that helped to promote this personality was the policy of profit sharing among all members of the branch.  This translated into organizations that were high communication, high speed, and high trust.  One way this was achieved was through their “Commitments to Communication.”  Posters and small cards designed to fit into wallets made sure that everyone in the organization knew the role of communication in moving the organization forward.  It’s a great example of a commitment that a company, a business unit, or a team can make.

From my OnSite Maintenance Center days, if there is someone from Jupiter to Kendall and over from Naples and you remember this card, send me an e-mail.  I would love to hear from you.

Commitments to Communication

1. I will recognize your value to Kinko’s.
2. I will share my goals with you, and together we will develop an action plan
3. I will respect and utilize the chain of command to resolve problems.
4. I will solicit immediate feedback to assure we understand each other.
5. I will talk with you, not at you.
6. I will listen with an open mind.
7. I will try and see the situation from all points of view.
8. I will tell you when I don’t know the answer, and together we will see the answer.
9. I will give you honest and sincere feedback.
10. I will not usurp your authority.
11. I will not confront you when I am angry.
12. I will not gossip.
13. I will not publicly embarrass you.
14. I will admit when I am wrong.

…and in every case I am worthy of the same.

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