Improving internal business communications can be challenging, but addressing these obstacles can significantly enhance communication within your organization. Here are some of the top obstacles and ways to overcome them using the Return On Energy™ Framework:

1. Lack of Clear Communication Strategy:

   • Solution: Develop a well-defined communication strategy that connects the Why to the What. Ensure alignment with what people are doing with your organization's overall objectives.

2. Information Overload:

   • Solution: Prioritize and streamline information. Use your limited time effectively, such as emails, Slacks®, internal newsletters, meeting openers, agenda, one on ones, etc., for restating the company purpose, mission and values. Encourage concise, focused messaging.

3. Poor Communication Tools and Technology:

   • Solution: Invest in modern communication tools and technologies that facilitate collaboration and information sharing. Ensure that employees are trained to use these tools effectively.

4. Silos and Departmental Barriers:

   • Solution: Promote cross-functional collaboration through regular meetings, interdepartmental projects, and a unified communications. Encourage open communication channels. A manager at the executive leadership team level becomes a leader within their division. 

5. Resistance to Change:

   • Solution: Implement changes gradually, provide training and support, and communicate the benefits clearly. Involve employees in the change process by following WBOC/E™: weigh-in, buy-in, ownership, commitment that leads to employee engagement. 

6. Language and Cultural Differences:

   • Solution: Address language and cultural diversity through inclusive communication practices, translation services, and cultural sensitivity training. Using a common business language and illuminating buzzwords helps significantly. 

7. Remote Work and Distributed Teams:

   • Solution: Leverage virtual communication tools, establish regular check-ins, and create a sense of connection through virtual team-building activities.

8. Ineffective Feedback Mechanisms:

   • Solution: Establish clear channels for feedback, such as suggestion boxes, surveys, and regular one-on-one meetings. Act on feedback to demonstrate its value. Cascading personal results up to the company business objectives helps drive a culture of accountability. 

9. Leadership Communication Gaps:

   • Solution: Ensure leaders communicate transparently and regularly. Train leaders in effective communication skills and encourage approachability.

10. Low Employee Engagement:

    • Solution: Foster a culture of engagement by involving employees in decision-making, recognizing their contributions, and promoting a sense of ownership in communication initiatives.

11. Inconsistent Messaging:

    • Solution: Develop and enforce communication guidelines to ensure consistency in messaging and branding across departments and teams.

12. Lack of Measurable Outcomes:

    • Solution: Define clear communication objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs). Regularly assess the impact of communication initiatives and adjust strategies accordingly.

13. Time Constraints:

    • Solution: Recognize the value of effective communication in saving time in the long run. Prioritize communication as a core activity, and encourage time management and delegation.

14. Security and Privacy Concerns:

    • Solution: Implement robust data security measures and educate employees on best practices for secure communication, especially when handling sensitive information.

15. Inadequate Training:

    • Solution: Invest in communication training programs for employees at all levels, focusing on both written and verbal communication skills using the ROE® Framework.

Overcoming these obstacles requires a strategic, organization-wide effort. Tailor your solutions to your organization's specific needs and continually assess and adapt your internal communication strategies to ensure they remain effective in addressing these challenges.