The way you communicate with your people signals what importance they should attach to what you tell them. If really important things aren't getting done in your department, take a good look at the way you're talking about them.
According to expert opinion and research, you may be surprised that high-profile communication events—kick-off meetings, urgent memos, big presentations with lots of fancy slides—may not have the impact you would like.Frequent one-on-one meetings and phone calls will underscore that a topic has a high priority for you.
A scheduled appointment in your office will also signal that something is important, but not as much as something you talk about often, even in more off-the-cuff situations.A specially called meeting with several staffers says the topic is of moderate importance. You can make it a high priority only if you follow up with further information or inquiries.
A presentation at a regular staff meeting sends the message that the topic is basically "FYI." It's not more important than whatever is already on your people's plates.
A memo, letter or e-mail, if it's the only communication you have on a subject, is a pretty good way to ensure that the topic is put on the back burner.