What is a potential negative consequence of miscommunication?

Choosing to focus on a potential negative consequence of miscommunication highlights a critical element of organizational dynamics. Miscommunication can lead to decreased productivity and morale for several reasons. First, when individuals misunderstand instructions or the purpose of tasks, it often results in delays and inefficiencies. Team members might waste time on activities that do not align with the overall objectives due to unclear messaging.

Additionally, when people are not on the same page, this can lead to frustration and confusion among employees, impacting their motivation and overall job satisfaction. Low morale arises when team members feel unsupported or consistently misinformed, which can foster a negative work environment. In the long run, this can create an atmosphere characterized by mistrust and disengagement, further exacerbating productivity issues and hindering the organization's effectiveness.

The other options present positive outcomes that would not be feasible when miscommunication occurs. For instance, increased clarity in communication roles or stronger relationships among coworkers cannot exist if miscommunication is prevalent, as these conditions rely on clear and effective communication. Similarly, greater alignment of organizational goals is contingent upon clear communication throughout the organization, and miscommunication would naturally disrupt that alignment.