How To Communicate Effectively With Your Staff

Running a business can be fraught with stresses and difficulties, least of all with your staff. Your employees are the lifeblood of your company, so establishing a good relationship with them is vital for success. How do you get great staff that work hard to get the job done, and that will remain loyal to you and the business for as long as possible? The key is in how you communicate with them – nail that, and everything else will fall into place. Here’s how to communicate effectively with every member of your team in a meaningful and productive manner…

Clever criticism. There will always be times that you have to let an employee know that they have made a mistake, or they just aren’t doing things the way you want. Shouting withering put downs at people is not going to get you anywhere – so keep your temper in check, no matter how frustrating the situation. If necessary, take some time out to calm down and reflect on the problem before approaching any staff with your criticisms.

When the time comes for you to tell your staff that they have got it wrong, soften the blow by first telling them about something that they have done really well – and give them some praise. Follow that up with a brief description of the problem, making this as objective as possible. Don’t use emotive words, just point out the issue in practical terms. When you are doing this, use language that expresses a wish, and a need for the staff member to help you to resolve the problem. For example, you could say ‘It would be great if you could help me out by doing it this way…do you need any guidance on what to do?’

Make your software work for you. A great software program will allow you to communicate more effectively with your staff. To manage things really well, find out about custom Sharepoint development. Having a tailored Sharepoint program throughout the office will allow you to share important information, facilitate good working practices, and allow you to circulate company news that is in everyone’s interest. Using this kind of software will allow you to keep in touch with your employees and monitor how they are progressing without breathing down their necks – which will make for a much more harmonious and productive working environment for everyone.

Listen. It doesn’t matter how skilled you are at communicating with your employees if you aren’t willing to listen to what they have to say. When someone has something to say, employ active listening strategies to demonstrate that their views and contribution matter. Give your staff regular opportunities to get their voices heard, both at formal appraisals and in the form of informal brainstorming sessions – and they will feel valued. Valued employees work harder and are more likely to stay with you – so listening is vitally important.

Find out here how you can train your staff in the most effective ways, and remember, how you communicate with them can make or break your business.

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