Communication is Key to Good Leadership
It’s often said concerning marriage and relationships that “communication is key.” It’s simple and seems overstated, but it’s a concept that should be more highly regarded in the workplace as well, not just at home. It’s common knowledge that communication is vital for just about every element of a relationship - after all, how can a husband know what’s bothering his wife if she refuses to tell him? Well, the same principle holds true in the workplace. How can employees know what their boss expects of them if expectations aren’t clearly communicated? The phrase “use your words!” comes to mind. And yet, I’ve seen so many times how frustration between employees and leadership often stems from a simple lack of discussing expectations.
Improved communication is something every worker should practice, from the intern up to the executives. But leaders must set the example by communicating with their colleagues. So, where to begin? Should you start by just swinging by every office for fifteen minutes each to chat? While not necessarily a bad idea all the time, that’s an unstructured approach that doesn’t demonstrate that the goal of the conversation is to advance communication. Yes, believe it or not, you can talk a lot while communicating very little. The following are some ways through which you can start advancing a culture of openness and communication today:
1. Hold Regular Standing Meetings
You decide how often your workplace should have standing meetings, but I’d recommend by beginning with once a week. Set a timer for fifteen minutes and come in with an agenda in mind to avoid rambling or forgetting essential points. At these meetings, communicate any big goals or “asks” you have for your team that week, and discuss progress and obstacles on any prior assignments or projects. Make sure to announce deadlines if you have them, who will be working on what as well as what role you will play in the projects. This gives everyone clear ideas for what their week will look like, what your and their expectations are, and what they can prioritize. Don’t try and micro-manage, as not everyone will go about a task in the same way that you would. Make the desired outcome clear, and leave room for the person to bring their own skills and talents into the project to bring about the desired outcome.
2. Follow Through On Expectations
Sure, having expectations is nice and all, but when people are following through (or not following through) and leadership doesn’t bat an eye or value accountability, workers will stop seeing the value in what you say. Follow through on your expectations by openly appreciating when people meet or exceed them and following up with those who do not.
3. Create an Open Door Policy
Communicating is a skill. Just because you’ve said, stated or written what you want does not mean it was effectively communicated. Differences like generational gaps, gender, and listening styles can create holes in communication. Expect that, no matter how effectively you describe something, listeners will still have questions, and that’s okay. Taking the time to answer a few questions at the beginning can help ensure that a task or project is done well, and is a good investment of your time. Furthermore, communicate to your team that they can ask for clarification as needed along the way.
By setting up standards for effective communication, you will not only be a more productive and respected leader, but you will also start to set the tone for your employees who will witness through you the power of excellent communication and feedback in leadership.
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