Whether you’re communicating with employees or superiors, say what you mean as directly as you can without being curt. Diffidence or timidity isn’t going to get you anywhere, because it wastes time in a number of ways. So choose your words carefully. While there will always be some potential for confusion (we’re only human, after all), solid, clear wording at all levels will ensure that such confusion is limited. Don’t use a ten-dollar word when a nickel one will do; not only will people not have to waste time (and therefore productivity) trying to figure out what you’re trying to say, they’re less likely to mistake what you’re trying to say. Mistakes waste time, so it’s crucial to avoid as many as possible.