Back to Basics: Communication at Work [EPISODE 5] | Workhuman

TL;DR

Strong communication and trust between managers and employees are crucial for engagement, growth, and retention in the workplace.

Transcript

• We are in constant communication at work. It's how we check in, collaborate, problem solve, and all of that communication gives the organization a buzz. - It's the glue. It's the absolute glue. - Strong communication skills help to build strong teams. - Like all relationships, commitment to continuous conversation is the key. - This is "Back to B... Read More

Key Insights

• ❓ Effective communication is vital in the manager-employee relationship and across the organization.
• 💪 Frequent check-ins between managers and employees build trust, psychological safety, and a stronger connection to work.
• 🥹 Building a feedback culture requires holding a mirror up to the employee's perspective and creating a dialogue rather than a monologue.
• 🤗 Trust is created through open and honest communication, allowing for vulnerability and creating a safe space for employees to share their experiences.
• 💦 Personal connections and understanding employees' lives outside of work can improve communication and make feedback conversations less painful.
• 💦 Trust and communication are crucial in the evolving workplace, especially in hybrid work environments and globalized settings.
• 🤪 Leaders should prioritize building relationships with their direct reports, going beyond task-related discussions and showing genuine care for their well-being.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does frequent communication between managers and employees impact trust and engagement?

When employees have regular check-ins with their managers, they feel more trust and psychological safety, leading to higher engagement and a stronger connection to their work.

Q: What are the essential elements of a good check-in between a manager and their direct report?

A good check-in should happen frequently (at least once a week), go beyond task-related discussions, and show genuine interest in the employee as a person.

Q: Why is trust important in the workplace, and how can it be fostered?

Trust is critical for creating a feedback culture and an engaged workforce. Trust can be built by creating an environment where people can speak openly and honestly, with a sense of balance and fairness.

Q: Why is traditional feedback often unpleasant for both the giver and the receiver?

Traditional feedback can activate the fear response in both parties, leading to defensiveness and a negative experience. Managers may resort to avoiding or disguising feedback to avoid discomfort.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Effective communication is the glue that connects people in an organization and builds strong teams.

• Managers who have frequent check-ins with their direct reports foster trust, psychological safety, and a stronger connection to the work.

• Good check-ins should set expectations, build trust, and show genuine care for employees as individuals.