What does a No-News Policy assume about silence?

A No-News Policy assumes that silence typically indicates bad news. In the context of condominium management, failing to receive updates or communication about ongoing issues or developments can lead to concern and speculation among residents. This silence often leads individuals to infer that there may be negative matters at hand, as unaddressed issues tend to linger and create anxiety among stakeholders.

This belief stems from a general tendency in communication dynamics where a lack of information often fills the void with worry. Residents and stakeholders may prematurely conclude that if no updates are provided, the situation is worsening or that there are problems being avoided. Thus, in management practices, it is crucial to maintain transparency and regular communication to mitigate the interpretation of silence as bad news.

The other possible interpretations, such as neglect or satisfaction, do not align with the common perceptions in communication theory. While silence might be perceived as neglect in other contexts, in this particular case, the absence of communication is more strongly tied to implications of negative developments rather than simply being an issue of oversight. Moreover, assuming silence equates to good news is usually counterintuitive, as it is unlikely for individuals to feel reassured in the absence of information, particularly in situations where stakeholders expect updates or resolutions.