How do you talk to that employee population walking dazed through the aisles of most businesses, frightened of the next layoff, grieving the loss of colleagues, and basically unmotivated? The key lies in how you handle your internal communications during meetings following job losses at your company.
Be Empathetic. Rather than channeling your concerns into a false, cheery or threatening "get a grip" tone, modulate your voice. Talk naturally and sincerely. Speak to others the way you would want to be addressed.
Meet More Often. Get out from behind the lectern. Sit together weekly for an honest give and take. Provide updates, then practice your listening skills. Hear what is on the employees' minds.
Use Effective Oral Communications Skills. The staff will be watching and listening. Make eye contact, relax and react positively to suggestions, offering praise for ideas and explaining why they can or cannot be considered. Given the current environment, work towards an "us" mentality. After all, we are all in it together.
Employees know jobs and businesses are tenuous. What they want is understanding, honesty and compassion. Approach it that way, communicate, and you have a greater chance of gaining cooperation--and achieving business recovery.
From Executive Speak/Write, oral and written communications trainers who want to ensure your communications skills help you succeed in today's challenging times.
