Think back to your first home. Whether it was a rental property or you purchased it, it became a home once you put in the fixtures, fittings and finishes that helped define the spaces in the house plus the occupants of the house – you and your family. All are necessary to make the house feel complete; for it to become your home. Similarly, think about a company. It is not just about the office space furnishing and interior décor that makes it complete. You need the addition of people – your employees. Your employees are your greatest asset. Whether you like it or not, you need them. They are the driving force behind your company’s existence and success.
Your interaction with them on a day-to-day basis and how you communicate with them is very important. It is key in determining if they will be productive for the company or not. The words we speak and how we express them does have an impact on their productivity.
Often as Managers, we may feel that the best way to get a point across is through aggressive speech. Do not get me wrong, there are definitely moments in your line of work, where as a leader your frustration and anger levels will ‘hit the roof’. When moments like this happen, take a few moments to calm yourself down before approaching the employee with a response. However, contrary to what some may believe, aggressive behaviour towards employees kills their spirits and demotivates them and you will get less out of them, not more.
If you let out your anger in their presence before you can control it, take time later to recover the situation. Then have another meeting with the employee and start by apologizing for your angry outburst – this is very important. Focus on how you communicate with the employee. Have a calm and candid discussion with them. Your voice should be calm and expressive without any angry intonations as you explain the reason(s) for your disappointment in their performance. Ensure your communication is demonstrative on the correct action that is expected and inspirational to encourage them to perform better. If discipline is required, take the necessary action.
Employees will value and thrive in an environment where communication is open and honest as they are guided on the corrective action they need to take in order to improve. It will keep them motivated, part of the team, and ensure organizational success.
