Managers should LISTEN
Managers who shout out “what do you want?” when employees approach them cannot elicit passion and value from their workers. A simple “how can I help you?” asked without attitude will result in a positive and valuable interaction.
Studies have shown that a manager who genuinely listens to employees without judgement, valuing who they are and what they have to say, ranks high with employees.
Such appreciative listening builds trust and respect. Employees value these managers and listen to what they say in return. As a result, the manager, and the employee, are far more effective in their roles.
How you listen will tell your employees whether you value their input. For example, listening without interrupting or pre judging the outcome lets workers know what they say is worth hearing all the way to the end.
If you take notes while listening, you will impress upon the speaker that you take what they are saying seriously. We don’t write down what’s not important.
When you don’t allow interruptions in order to give your full attention to the speaker, you let him or her know that you value what they have to say.
Employees who feel valued, trusted and appreciated will give discretionary effort, and this will result in higher productivity, lower absenteeism, reduced staff turnover and improved customer experience, so take time out for your team. The results may surprise you.
