Excellent communication is the key to success for any team, large or small. But getting it right can be complicated. How are you able to build relationships and improve communication while minimizing conflict in the workplace? Here are some tips from Future Force, one of Orlando’s top office staffing agencies, to help you:
Create a culture that’s friendly to communication.
As a leader, it’s up to you to set the tone. So communicate openly and often with your staff. Explain they can come in at any time to discuss questions, concerns, or ideas with you. Also, regularly check in with each one individually to assess progress and find out about any challenges. The more often you communicate with your people, the more they’ll follow suit and communicate back to you.
Offer regular feedback and ask for it.
Don’t simply rely on annual reviews to give your staff the feedback they crave. Instead, touch base with them more regularly, whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. This will ensure they know what they’re doing right and can correct course if needed. You’ll be surprised by how many potential threats and brewing problems you’ll find out about and be able to deal with before they escalate. (Read this post for more tips on keeping your employees productive.)
In addition, ask for feedback from your team. Inquire about ways you can further support them and help them meet their career goals. Doing so will create a more open environment and a continuous flow of information that will help you better manage your team.
Offer a way to give anonymous feedback.
If there is a serious issue going on at work, an employee might not feel comfortable coming to you in person or even emailing you. That’s why there should be a way for them to communicate about it anonymously. They’ll be more likely to divulge a complaint and openly share feelings if they know they won’t face repercussions. Make it clear how they can do this by explaining it in your employee handbook.
Communicate in-person as often as you can.
Electronic communication is critical in today’s workplace. But it won’t ever fully replace in-person communication. Nuances and details can get lost in translation. It’s why you should strive to communicate face-to-face as often as possible, especially if it’s about a sensitive subject.
Listen to your team.
Even though you’re the manager, you shouldn’t be doing all the talking. In fact, it’s often more important to sit back and listen carefully. When you do, you can provide more space for your people to communicate with you openly and transparently. It also shows them that you truly care about their issues and concerns.
Do you need help hiring great communicators on your team?
Future Force can help. As one of the area’s leading office staffing agencies, we know how to source, screen, and vet talented individuals who will be an asset to your department and your company. Contact us today to learn more or get started.