People are People…Or Are They?

Proactive Employee Relations Tips

Let’s say that you enjoy a fast pace, working with people and variety. Can you assume that People are People and that everyone enjoys the same things? Managers who make this assumption may see an impact to productivity, commitment and employee relations and it usually isn’t positive!

Proactive employee relations gets ahead of the curve by getting to know each of your employees, building trust and finding out their preferences before major problems occur.

Some of your employees may be exactly like you; others may have an entirely different style or opposite preferences. What is the best way to find out? Ask them! Key questions to ask:

• What form of communication do you prefer? Some folks like email, are almost fused to their PDA and may think discussions are a waste of time. Others like the interaction verbal communication offers finding written communication too impersonal.
• How do you like to be recognized? Public recognition is terrific for some people, others maybe be embarrassed by this and prefer a sincere one-on-one compliment. “Just send me an email” may be a third response to this question.
• What type of work environment motivates/de-motivates you? These are key questions related to the type of assignments to provide and also the type of workplace issues that may be either motivating people or creating a barrier to their effectiveness.
• What are your future goals? How can I help you achieve your goals? If you understand your employee’s goals you can encourage attendance at training classes or special assignments. It is also important to know if your employees are happy staying in their current positions so you don’t push them towards another job they might dislike.

DiSC is an excellent tool to for providing a common language and getting the discussion started. Interested in a Making the Communication workshop for your organization?