It’s important to rein in, take initiative, and inspire those around the office. But, this objective becomes an impossible task if employees don’t listen. People can be way too stubborn for their own good, and your employees are no exception.
So, what can you do?
Below, we’d like to offer 3 tips to improve your leadership communication skills. Even if you think you’re already good at talking to people, there’s always room for improvement.
Don’t Let Your Ego Get in the Way
Don’t let your ego get in your way. No one likes to get talked down to, and your employees are certainly no exception.
Instead of sitting on a pedestal, take the time to engage with your team. This doesn’t mean you have to be overly friendly or agree with everything your team says. Instead, we want you to talk to your employees like real people, and treat them with respect.
Stay away from gossipping or making snarky remarks about your employees – even if it’s only to a close group of people. There’s really no point in making these comments, and if caught, your actions will incentivize employees to not listen.
Think Differently About Your Employees
Yes, you’re responsible for delegating responsibilities to your employees. That’s true. But, you shouldn’t be a boss who’s solely concerned about productivity. Approach your employees like how a coach approaches their players. Aim to lift your employees, and make them better at their jobs. Indirectly, the better your employees are, the better your company is.
Take time to learn about each of your employees’ roles. When employees lag behind or are frustrated by their lack of progress, consider setting up a training course. Ask what an employee needs to thrive on the job.
Add More Feedback Channels
It’s important to provide outlets where employees can openingly voice their opinions. Most employees won’t just barge into your room and confront you. It’s simply not professional.
But, this means feedback is never received and any possible employee discontent gets swept under the rug. In fact, most employees have ideas to improve a business, but employees are failing to listen. Employees get stuck in an unhappy work environment, and they’ll express their discontent in other ways – such as not listening to you.
So, here’s what you do.
Offer a fast and secure way for your employees to anonymously voice their opinions. Something as simple as a Google form may suffice. The more important thing is to set your ego aside (again), and consider both negative and positive comments.