Communicate ... listen, talk, listen some more Published April 9, 2007 By Lt. Col. Edward Wold 305th Air Mobility Wing Inspector General McGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. -- Communication has many definitions and interpretations; but simply put, according to Merriam-Webster, it is the "exchange of information." The key to this is the exchange part. It is not a single-sided effort, it is a two-way street. Even if only one person is talking, the other person must hear, interpret and understand the message. This is what I call listening! Why is it so hard to listen? For me, the most common reason is that I am spending too much time talking (I'm sure my wife and kids would back me up on this!). We (yes, me too!) have to remember that it is an exchange of information. And in communication, it is better to receive than to give! Our core values also set communication in a firm foundation -- Integrity first includes openness, encouraging a free flow of information within the organization; Service Before Self includes respect for others; and Excellence In All We Do includes working together to successfully reach a common goal that preserves individual self-worth. As your Inspector General, I rely on this foundation to enable me to communicate with you. I am humbled and excited by the opportunity to serve our base as a grievance channel available to anyone associated with our community. I am dedicated to be an objective fact-finder in the complaint resolution process. As your IG, I stand ready to listen! Finally, some background about the IG and how we are designed to serve you. According to AFPD 90-3, "Air Force military and civilian members have a duty to promptly report fraud, waste and abuse or gross mismanagement; violations of law, policy, procedures, or regulations; an injustice; abuse of authority; misconduct; inappropriate conduct; deficiencies or like conditions, to an appropriate supervisor or commander, to an IG or other appropriate inspector, or through an established grievance channel upon becoming aware of the matter." "Complainants should attempt to resolve complaints and fraud, waste and abuse at the lowest possible level using command channels before addressing them to a higher level or the IG. The IG is the grievance channel to present complaints of wrongdoings when no other means of redress or appeal exists. No one may deny Air Force personnel access to an IG." Communication is the key to the relationship between you and your chain-of-command, the IG, or any other grievance channel. Your understanding of these relationships, especially with your chain of command, will enhance your career and enable success. In the words of Lt. Gen. Ronald F. Sams, the Inspector General: There are 3 rules for success: 1. Know who your boss is 2. Know what your boss wants 3. Do it Unless it's: Illegal, immoral or fattening...