Michael Saltzstein Explains Why Over-Communication Can Still Leave Teams Misaligned

In today’s fast-paced work environment, it is common for leaders to equate more communication with better alignment. Michael Saltzstein, known for his expertise in leadership strategy, highlights that over-communication can actually dilute key messages and create confusion. When teams are inundated with constant updates, repetitive information, and unclear priorities, the important details get lost in the noise. 

This overload does not just waste time. It draws attention, creates conflicting interpretations, and can even lead to decision fatigue. Instead of fostering clarity, excessive communication often leaves employees unsure about what truly matters. 

Recognizing the Difference Between Signal and Noise 

Signal refers to communication that is relevant, actionable, and aligned with organizational goals. Noise is everything else that clutters the message. While leaders may believe they are being thorough by sharing every detail, the result can be an overwhelming stream of information that blurs the critical points. 

Signs of too much noise include long email threads that circle the same topic, frequent but vague status updates, and multiple communication channels delivering inconsistent messages. When noise dominates, employees may either disengage or focus on the wrong priorities. 

The Risks of Over-Communication 

Overcommunication can create a false sense of alignment. Everyone may feel well-informed simply because they receive constant updates, yet misunderstandings persist. This is particularly dangerous in cross-functional teams, where overlapping messages can cause duplicate work or missed responsibilities. 

Another risk is communication fatigue. When employees are constantly bombarded with information, they begin to filter it out, potentially missing critical updates. This selective attention undermines the very goal of communication. 

Streamlining for Clarity 

The solution is not less communication but better communication. Leaders should focus on delivering concise, targeted messages that emphasize priority actions and decisions. This requires actively filtering out unnecessary details and choosing the most effective channel for the message. 

Clear subject lines, structured updates, and defined next steps can help ensure that the signal is strong. Establishing regular but purposeful communication rhythms can also prevent the scattering of ad-hoc updates that disrupt workflow. 

Building a Culture of Intentional Messaging 

Organizations can strengthen alignment by fostering a culture of intentional and outcome-driven communication. This means training teams to distinguish between essential updates and background information. Leaders should encourage employees to ask for clarity when a message is vague or when priorities are unclear. 

Intentional messaging reinforces focus and ensures that everyone is aligned with the same objectives. By reducing the noise, teams can make faster decisions and work more efficiently toward shared goals. 

Michael Saltzstein emphasizes that effective leadership is not about how much you communicate but how well you communicate. When organizations prioritize clear, purposeful messaging over volume, they preserve attention, strengthen alignment, and ensure that the right signals guide the team forward.