Put down the phone, stop texting, look away from the computer. When your employee approaches you with a question, problem or issue, make full eye contact, keep a neutral expression, and fully listen.
Simply by being present, you are giving your employee a gift. Yes, it’s true.
However, you don’t always have time to give your employees the undivided attention they seek. Let him or her know that you are in the middle of something and schedule a time for you to have the conversation – and stick with it. Make your staff your priority, and you’ll create a foundation of trust.
Keep yourself from distractions by muting your phone and turning it over on your desk, so you don’t notice the texts, emails, and Facebook notices popping up.
Action Ideas:
- Sincerely focusing on employees may feel uncomfortable at first. Focus on specific actions and keep trying until it feels natural.
- If you’re having a difficult time relating to an employee, challenge yourself to find one good thing about him or her. You’ll change the energy you exude around them and will have a good chance of forming a positive relationship.
- Remember, this concentrated focus works equally well with friends and family too!
To get this and 97 other ideas on Manufacturing Engagement, please check out Lisa Ryan’s book, “Manufacturing Engagement: 98 Proven Strategies to Attract and Retain Your Industry’s Top Talent“