I agree that it's great that CEO's are taking the time to listen to their associates more. The next question is, are they acting on what they hear? Are they giving the kudos to the front line associate who came up with the idea? Are they taking the time to respond to the e-mail, with at least a quick thank you? If something ends up happening because of the idea, does the CEO let the associate know the outcome? Reading alone is never enough, as you might as well "read" a book or magazine. Action is what's important. I'm for more action, and more shared successes, to encourage more conversation and more innovation.
I agree with Phil. Action is the key and the company culture must be trusting enough for this to work. Nothing beats the fact that CEOS should spend 80 + % of time talking and working with employees and customers (how come customers can't send Emails too). Email Open Box is an extenion (location) of the open-door policy.
The same downfalls exist (hierarchy, trust, loose cannons, employees who take advantage and manipulate the system and middle managers who sabatoge the procees out of fear, to name a few).
That didn't work in most companies because of culture and the fact the secretary would not let you through his/her open door. Be aware that many CEO's have secretary's that filter their Emails.
Blackberry by the Bed - just another mode of sending work/delegation Emails to subordinates. Been around for years and my boss used it daily
(I mean nightly).
Unfortunately these methods of communication have in reality reduced two-way conversation because by sending a message one way/delegated in today's busuness world means done and very limited time for clarification and negotiation of priorities.
I can't tell you the number of times someone sent me an Email thinking it was an agreed upon contract to have something done. "Didn't you get my Email and Voice Mail?"
Commenting by HaloScan
