5 Effective Strategies for Starting and Maintaining Healthy Employer-Employee Relationships
Employer-employee relationships are the foundation and lifeblood of any business. Relationships with employees can either increase retention and attract new talent or steer candidates away. As with all relationships, there is an art to building an effective strategy to create a trusting environment within your team. Here are five tools you can use to do just that.
Communication
A cornerstone of all relationships is communication. Healthy cultures allow for two-way communication. Regular one-on-ones, expressing clear expectations, and allowing your employees to ask questions and give feedback help foster conversation. Employees often have a point of view that differs from people in high levels of leadership because they are more aware of the dynamics of day-to-day operations. Ask open-ended questions and be open to their feedback. When changes are happening within the company that will affect employees, be honest with employees. Communicate openly and regularly.
a culture of trust
It is hard for anyone to work in an environment of micro-management. Allowing employees to have autonomy communicates to them that you trust them to do their job. They may do things differently than you would or have a different approach. Make space for diversity. See their perspectives and insights as valuable information rather than threatening. Basic things like consistency, doing what you say will do, and following through on issues when they arise build rapport. When employees feel heard and feel like their concerns are taken seriously trust is built. In turn, this creates an environment of ownership as each person is responsible for their part of contributing to the bigger mission of the company.
appreciation
How important is appreciation? According to SHRM, 79% of employees say an increase in recognition would make them more loyal to their employer. This takes intentionality. Appreciation can be expressed through one-on-one meetings, specific feedback, and through employee programs or monetary gifts. Find ways to build regular appreciation for your company. Be sure to be impartial and fair when rewarding employees, avoiding favoritism. You can also thank departments and teams for jobs well done throughout the year.
the teams that grow together
You have probably heard the saying, “The team that plays together, stays together.” Learning together can be a powerful bonding experience. Employees appreciate it when employers recognize that they don’t have it all figured out. Create a culture of learning by implementing training, discussion, and attending conferences or workshops that allow each employee to grow in their knowledge and skills. Adopt the attitude of a lifelong learner. Then create opportunities for everyone to learn together.
encourage collaboration over competition
As you develop your relationship with employees remember to encourage them to work together. This will mitigate (not all, but perhaps some) employees fighting for the boss’ affirmation. Be clear and enforce rewarding teamwork as much as individual efforts. Teams that value curiosity, growth, and empathy are more likely to be cohesive. Respect each employee equally.
need more insight?
Source One provides HR consulting for companies in the Chicago area, St. Louis, Grand Prairie, and Earth City. Our team can guide you through common team struggles and management issues. We also offer training, payroll services, OSHA inspections, and staffing services. We are your one stop shop for all of your HR needs! Contact our office today for more information!