Listen to your employees

Listen to your employees and hear what they have to say, what their concerns are, what their needs are and what their goals are in terms of self-development within the organisation.

This is one of the critical pieces of advice that Economist at The Productivity Council, Nadia E.M. Skeete, sends out to management of business houses in her article, ‘Effective Motivation: The Key to Business Success.’

She stated that when employers listen – truly listen – to their staff, it shows these persons that management cares about them and what they have to say and this only encourages them to work harder.

“Listen effectively: Listening attentively is a form of recognising and appreciating the person who is talking. Effective listening by the manager boosts the employees’ morale and thus motivates them.”

Management can also ensure that the lines of communication between their employees and themselves always remain open and courteous.

“Ensure effective communication: Avoid using expressions of anger, instead use questioning techniques to understand staff’s mind-set. Rather than ordering staff what to do, use a relaxed and steady tone and listen effectively. Remember to share your views with the staff.”

Employers should also encourage their employees to share their ideas and to have flexible schedules whenever the need may arise.  

“Develop and encourage creativity: This can be used to help solve organisational problems.  Encourage ideas and suggestions from the staff. Don’t be rigid and flexible – allow for flexi-hours if possible. Accept ideas from the staff readily, even suggestions with respect to changes they would like to bring about if afforded the opportunity.”

Including your staff in the decision making process and respecting them are also important skills that a manager must process.

“Adopt job enrichment: Involve employees in the decision-making process, show them loyalty and celebrate their achievements. This may mean facilitating the process for people to achieve self-development and success through a more challenging job which provides more promotional and upward mobility opportunities.

“Respect your team: Respect not only the employees’ rights, but their time too. This will ensure that the employees respect you and your time. The staff should feel respected, not just as employees, but as individuals as well.” (PJT)