1. The pace of market changes require fast responses and rapid decisions. So businesses need to be less rigid and less bureaucratic. Information needs to flow up, down and across. It's no longer sufficient to have a few skilled communicators in key positions. Fast response times requires everyone to be a competent communicator.

2. Teams are now the basic unit of business (whatever you call them, even tribes and squads). People need to know how to communicate effectively and reach consensus quickly on complex issues, without relying on the boss.

3. Global organisations demand more skilful communicators. Global collaboration, cultural differences, multi-generational workforces. Misunderstandings can arise quickly. Effective communication is quite possibly the essential competency of the global corporation.

4. Technology is changing the way we communicate - virtual meetings, teleconferences, messaging, email, social media. Each requires a different approach to get the message across. People need flexible and adaptable communication skills, because technology does nothing to alter the quality of communication; the human factor remains critical.

5. Businesses that don’t evolve won’t survive. Jack Welch said "If the rate of change on the outside exceeds the rate of change on the inside, the end is near". Businesses need to embrace and maintain a culture of continuous learning and that means open, transparent and clear communication.

“A Word to the Wise - Communication Tips from Lionheart Consulting”