One of the defining factors between a successful and an adequate workplace is the communication that takes place within the company’s environment. Good communication increases productivity and retains quality employees for longer periods of time. As a manager, you can improve your team’s communication by fostering an open culture, increasing collaboration efforts, and consistently making yourself available.
Foster an Open Culture
The best work production comes when employees feel a part of a team. As a manager, you can foster an open culture within your team to let ideas flow. Part of this open culture means encouraging your employees to connect with each other to improve their overall engagement. Hosting activities outside of work is a great way for employees to relax and get to know each other. You can also develop and promote core values within your team by focusing on organizational goals and actively seeking ways to implement them on a day-to-day basis.
Increase Collaboration
As a manager, it is vital to have a high level of collaboration between your employees. Obeya is a room set up to get employees into a central location for increased discussion and problem-solving. Obeya is designed for faster communication and decision-making. It helps employees break down barriers and collaborate more effectively without the distractions of the everyday workplace. To increase collaboration and communication, provide an environment where your employees can feel secure, equal, and focused on the immediate tasks before them.
Make Yourself Available
One of the most important things you can do as a manager is to make yourself available to your employees. Let your employees get to know and trust you as their leader. Trust happens when they feel like they can come to you at any time to discuss concerns or ask questions. Listening actively, with empathy, is a sign of a good manager. It communicates to your employees that their voice matters and that they have a vital role in the success of your team. When employees feel like they can trust you, talk to you, and voice their opinions, they are more likely to communicate more frequently and effectively.
Helping your staff understand the company culture and objectives is vital to achieving your organization’s goals. Understanding the culture starts with effective communication. Increase communication in the workplace by fostering an open culture, increasing collaboration efforts, and making yourself available for individual conversations.
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