The Invisible Spaces of Communication

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The Invisible Spaces of Communication

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Claudia Gilhofer
|
21. February 2025

The Invisible Spaces of Communication

In organizations, there are spaces that don’t appear on any architectural plan. These spaces are invisible and emerge when people connect with one another. Such invisible conversation spaces shape how we think, speak, and act. And they often prove more powerful than any official strategy paper. Do you know where these spaces lie? A closer look is worthwhile.

When Strategies Fail to Meet Reality

A recent MIT study sheds fascinating light on how we solve problems: Even when we’ve already found a successful strategy, we continue to search for alternative solutions. This neurologically anchored tendency to experiment makes evolutionary sense. Because it promotes adaptation to changing environmental conditions and the discovery of potentially better outcomes. A capability that deserves special attention in our time.

Our natural joy of experimentation, however, easily collides with established organizational structures. In such conflicts, we see a classic phenomenon of group psychology: the dynamics between the in-group and those perceived as out-groups. The ‘us’ versus ‘them.’ When the outside world seems to change by the hour anyway, couldn’t at least something stay the same in what’s proven? Changes are demanding. More for some, less for others. The familiar convinces more often. Especially when pressure rises. Thus, whoever suggests trying something new risks being seen as a disruptive factor – as someone who endangers the harmony of the in-group. Where does this lead us?

The Power of Micro-Interactions

Every organization develops specific conversation patterns. These don’t emerge from imposed mission statements or strategy papers, but are shaped by daily micro-interactions.

When we respond to an unexpected suggestion with genuine interest, space for innovation opens up. Open or even subtle rejection, however, can close everything down. Not just for the moment, but for a long time. Such experiences – whether personally experienced or just heard about – shape the collective memory of an organization and ultimately determine stagnation or success.

Micro-interactions thus determine the character of our communication: Do people express their thoughts freely or hold back? Are experiments perceived as opportunities or disruptions? Do genuine dialogues emerge or does it remain superficial small talk?

Innovation as a Natural Principle

The MIT study makes clear: The drive for exploration isn’t a deviation that needs to be controlled – it’s an essential part of our humanity. A vital organizational culture harnesses this energy of experimental spirit. It creates opportunities where natural curiosity can unfold. It offers spaces where uncomfortable observations find a hearing and optimal solutions can be developed further. This is where real progress gains momentum.

Peter Drucker’s often-quoted insight “Culture eats Strategy for breakfast” becomes tangible: A strategy can be brilliant – but without a culture of open dialogue and courageous experimentation, it remains stalled or ineffective.

Transformation through Dialogue

As an Art and Creative Director, I’ve designed countless communication concepts and, as a systemic consultant, I guide strategic change processes. From my work, I know: The most exciting developments occur where organizations consciously keep spaces open for genuine dialogue. Where people are encouraged to express unconventional ideas. Where experimentation isn’t just tolerated but actively promoted and understood as an essential part of organizational development.

This doesn’t mean throwing all proven structures overboard. It means consciously creating opportunities where both stability and innovation find their place. Where the tension between preserving and renewing is proactively utilized within a safe framework. Not just for a brief moment, but continuously.

The Path to a Dialogical Organization

Building an experiment-friendly communication culture is itself an experiment. It requires courage, patience, and above all: a reflective and deep understanding of specific organizational dynamics and individual requirements. Each organization has its own rhythm, its own history, its unique challenges – and is brought to life by people with their diverse talents and experiences.

But there’s far more to the invisible spaces of communication than mutual understanding and constructive exchange. They are a significant factor in economic success: Inadequate or disrupted communication leads to misunderstandings, delayed decisions, demotivated employees, leadership errors, or missed opportunities. Ignoring these spaces wastes not only energy but also money. The price tag can be substantial.

 

What do you Want to Set in Motion?

 

Are you looking to co-create the invisible spaces of communication within your organization? With creativity, design expertise, strategic vision, and a deep understanding of people, brands, and communication, I am your trusted partner on this journey.

 

 

// Write to me

 

With best Wishes

Claudia Gilhofer

 

 

Never stop evolving.
Stay human.

[ Communication | Human | Brand ]

 

__

 

gil com | creative identity and beyond
For connecting communication + promoting personal growth, brand authenticity, a motivating corporate culture, and opening up new spaces for creative thinking.

Claudia Gilhofer:
Creative Planner, Communication Psychologist in Training, Systemic Business Coach, Facilitator, Mentor, Sparring Partner, VR Expert (XR-C)

 

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