– Does one mode make a difference over another?

Yes. Bottom line is I want to catch whichever senior leader I’m engaging at the most convenient time/manner possible. Choosing the wrong mode of communication (i.e. phone call) can imply my issue demands their attention right this instance. Email is my “go to”, as almost nothing requires immediate attention, and I’d much rather wait a week for that leader’s consideration than get a canned response. In person interactions are the best, but obviously require more calendar work. One of my mentors said “Never do with email what you can do with the phone. Never do with the phone what you can do in person.” Towards that end, I poke my head in various offices when I get the chance, but generally don’t push an “in person” meeting unless it seems email is going south. More than a few email fights (usually that I was CC’d on) have been resolved by just talking the issue out in person.

– Does it make a difference when the leader is a staff officer versus a commander? An officer versus an NCO?

Not especially. Certain offices are busier than others, but it really comes down to the priorities of that leader. I’ve already mentally prepared myself to stay late, and if the excuse is someone wants an hour of my opinions now, I can work on that award/eval/whatever after everyone is gone. Can’t guarantee or impose that mentality on senior leaders, so…semper gumby?

– Got a good “effective communication” story to share? Perhaps an “ineffective communication” story?

Tough question. Since we are always trying to communicate better, do we call anything “good”? I’m quite thankful for all the communication I’ve received, and would categorize “ineffective communication” as all the missed opportunities – emails left unanswered, conversations not had, etc etc.