We often encourage employees to ‘speak up’, something that’s easier said than done. That’s because it’s not easy to create an environment where employees are comfortable doing that. Think back to when you first started working: were you encouraged to speak up or did you wait to see if that was okay? Chances are that wasn’t made very clear, or you waited to see what others did. So, think about how and when you might broach this subject with your employees:
· Talk to applicants about the importance of speaking up
· Mention the importance of speaking up in your orientations
· Tell new employees during training why it’s good to speak up
· When employees speak up, make sure you listen and respond
· Sincerely thank employees who speak up – each and every time
Remember: just because you say it’s okay doesn’t make it easy for employees to tell you what’s on their mind. Engage with them, ask questions, encourage comments, and ask for feedback about their comfort level with this. Be aware if the same few do most of the talking; ask those who don’t for their input and use phrases like “tell me more” to draw them into conversations. Leaders are responsible for creating the kind of work environment where their employees feel comfortable giving feedback. Keep at it until there is a good on-going dialogue and let them know you appreciate it. Change the conversation if you want employees to change their behaviors today.
Jonathan Hamm (born 1971): American actor and producer known for his role as Don Draper in the period drama television series Mad Men (2007–2015)
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