Communication framework — peer-to-peer and up-to-MOD

framework #culture

Two channels, two rhythms:

Peer-to-peer (lateral): Quick, direct, in-service or pre-shift. "I need ice." "Cover my well for 2." "Table 14 needs a refill." Brief, action-oriented, no hierarchy needed. Eye contact. Confirmation.

Up to MOD (vertical): Same brevity in-service. After service, longer-form if needed. "I want to raise something about [X]" → schedule a 10 min conversation, don't ambush. MOD owes you a real answer within 48 hours.

What this framework prevents:

Long winding side-conversations during service (kills momentum)
Ambushing MOD with a heavy issue mid-shift (poor timing kills the message)
Bypassing peers to escalate everything (erodes trust)

What it requires:

Pre-shift attendance (the most-missed channel)
Post-shift debrief willingness (optional but high-leverage)
One-on-one monthly with MOD (scheduled, not optional)

Communication that doesn't happen in these channels happens in the back hallway — and the back hallway breeds gossip.