A Checklist for Managers

by Robin Reid

20 Ways to Communicate With Your Employees

1. Include affected employees in goal setting. 
2. Give frequent and meaningful recognition for a job well done.
3. Interact with employees on an informal basis.
4. Go to staff's work area. Meet them on their own turf.
5. Ask for staff's opinions and listen with an open mind. Try to understand their point of view.
6. Share non-confidential information with staff, and ask for their input and response on issues.
7. Offset demoralizing actions and events by emphasizing what went well, and use the experience as a learning opportunity.
8.   Listen 80% of the time and talk 20%.
9.   Ask staff what rumors they have heard, and address them.
10. . Get into the "trenches" with staff. Look for opportunities to understand employees' jobs better.
11. . Give information to staff after management meetings.
12. .  Ask staff. "Have I made our vision, mission, and goals clear and understandable?
13. .  Ask staff, "What can I do to help you with your job, and what am I doing that gets in your way?"
14. .  Ask staff "What is making our clients/customers the most and/or the least satisfied?"
15. .  Praise in public and give feedback in private.
16. .  Find something to like about each staff member with whom you work.
17. .  Actively make a point of speaking to all employees seen each day.
18. .  Build bridges with people with whom you are uncomfortable.
19. .  Set goals each month on ways to accomplish "Managing by Walking Around."
20. .  Occasionally have lunch with staff members.  Use this as an opportunity to build trust.

© 1999 Reid Moomaugh & Associates | Permission is granted to reproduce this document for training and education. I would appreciate any comments or suggestions for additions. Updated 11/04/02