Articles

What is the Biggest Mistake Bosses Make?

As many businesses are celebrating Bosses Day on October 16, it is helpful to understand what separates the great bosses from the not so great bosses. It is often found in their greatest mistake-- “not keeping employees in the loop.” During this time of uncertainty it is even more critical in the workplace for bosses to talk to their employees.  Many businesses are making changes in their procedures, whether it is travel, meetings or safety plans and employees are left in the dark about the details of the changes.

 Barb Wingfield, President of Morale Builders, advises bosses “If you want to improve morale in your work environment--increase your communication methods. The investment will be minimum, but it will yield enormous results.” When working with clients many times Wingfield observes bosses are looking for elaborate or fancy ways to improve the morale in the work environment when the best tool is free and easy to use—talking to the employees. Wingfield adds, “By freely sharing as much information as you can you will also gain the respect of the employees you supervise.”

Historically bosses have waited until all the decisions have been made, rather than telling the employees what they do know at that point in time. Bosses have a fear of looking incompetent or inadequate in front of the people they supervise--so they say nothing. Great bosses would share with the employees what they do know and admit the parts that are yet to be determined. In addition to “keeping people in the loop,” this will also build loyalty with the employees.

In Wingfield’s book, Retaining Your Employees Using Respect Recognition and Rewards for Positive Results, she also addresses the important issue of listening when communicating.

Remember:

• Give undivided attention to the employee, this means you are NOT shuffling papers or checking your email.
• Look for the real issue. Focus beyond what the employee is struggling with and ask questions to determine what is the underlying situation.
• Ask questions for clarification.

Don’t be one of the bosses who make the mistake of not talking with your employees. If you if feel that you are a boss who has great communication skills, this is still a time to increase your efforts. Your employees will appreciate your efforts to be a great boss who cares about them.