Why Being Informed Is More Important than Ever. by Garfield Joseph MBA

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Garfield Joseph

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In today’s world, we are drowning in information—but paradoxically, many people are still not truly informed. We scroll endlessly through social media, receive constant email updates, attend meetings, overhear conversations, and consume news from countless sources.

Yet, despite this flood of data, confusion, misinformation, and disengagement persist.

This paradox raises a critical question: What does it really mean to be informed?

To be informed is not merely to be exposed to information, it is to understand, to contextualize, and to apply knowledge in ways that improve decision-making, deepen engagement, and foster meaningful action.

Being informed empowers individuals to navigate their environments with clarity and confidence. It is the difference between reacting and responding, between surviving and thriving.

The Many Channels of Information

Information reaches us through a variety of channels:

  1. Electronic media: Emails, websites, social platforms, and apps
  2. Workplace interactions: Team meetings, memos, performance reviews.
  3. Traditional media: Newspapers, radio, television.
  4. Casual conversations: Gossip, hearsay, community chatter.
  5. Formal settings: Board meetings, policy briefings, training sessions.

Each of these sources has the potential to enlighten or mislead, depending on how the information is shared and received.

In the workplace, for example, employees want to know what is expected of them, what resources and training will be available to help them succeed, and ultimately, what’s in it for them. When these questions go unanswered, morale suffers, productivity declines, and trust erodes.

Why Keeping Others Informed Matters

In my years working with global companies—including Yum Brands—I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of information. One of the most profound lessons I learned is this: The more people know, the more they care.

Here are five critical benefits of keeping others informed:
1. Increased Engagement and Ownership: When people understand the “why” behind decisions, they are more likely to take ownership and contribute meaningfully. Transparency builds trust, and trust fuels commitment.
2. Better Decision-Making: Informed individuals make better choices. Whether it’s a frontline employee responding to a customer or a policymaker shaping national strategy, access to accurate information is essential.
3. Improved Collaboration: Teams function more effectively when everyone is on the same page. Clear communication reduces duplication, prevents misunderstandings, and fosters synergy.
4. Enhanced Resilience in Crisis: Consider how we use breaking news to share hurricane updates, tsunami warnings, or heat stroke advisories. These alerts are not just informative—they are life-saving. In moments of crisis, timely and accurate information can mean the difference between safety and tragedy.
5. Greater Empathy and Care: As mentioned earlier, when people are informed, they begin to care more deeply. They see the bigger picture, understand the stakes, and become invested in outcomes beyond their immediate interests.

The Workplace as an Information Ecosystem

In any organization, information is the lifeblood of culture and performance.

Leaders must provide clarity and consistency in communication.

Employees should never be left guessing about their roles, expectations, or opportunities. When people are kept in the dark, they disengage. When they are informed, they rise.

This principle applies not only to internal operations but also to customer relations, community outreach, and national development. Whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or shaping public policy, your ability to inform others effectively will determine your impact.

A Matter of Life and Death

Let’s not underestimate the stakes. In the Caribbean, we are no strangers to natural disasters.

When a hurricane is approaching, we don’t wait for casual updates—we rely on breaking stories and emergency broadcasts to guide our actions.

These updates help us prepare, protect our families, and preserve our communities.

Similarly, during heat waves or health emergencies, advisories about heat stroke risks or water safety are vital. In these moments, information is not just helpful—it is essential. It is, quite literally, a matter of life and death.

A Call to Action. So, what can we do?

Leaders: Provide clear and consistent communication. Share your vision, your plans, and your expectations openly.
Employees: Ask questions, seek clarity, and share insights with your peers.
Citizens: Stay engaged with credible news sources, participate in community discussions, and help others stay informed.
Media professionals: Continue to uphold the highest standards of journalism, ensuring that truth and relevance guide your reporting.

In a world overflowing with noise, we must become intentional about the information we consume and share. Learn to filter distractions, verify your sources, and prioritize truth over sensationalism. Being informed is not just a personal advantage—it’s a civic responsibility.

Share what matters, stay engaged, and help others do the same. Because sometimes, the right information, at the right time, can change everything-from saving lives to transforming organizations. 

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