Company leaders and executives have a great deal of power in the workplace, and with this power comes increased scrutiny by employees. The slightest sigh, heightened tone of voice, or quip can translate into key executive amplifiers that can either motivate or mislead subordinates. BlackEnterprise.com talked with Cherry Collier, Ph.D., executive coach and CEO of The Fruits of Labor Inc., on how to manage amplifiers to benefit employee morale and productivity and facilitate a balanced, positive work environment.#####
Understand the impact you have as an executive or person of authority. In those positions, you can't afford to have things taken in incorrect ways, Collier says. "Don’t make assumptions [about how you might be perceived]," Collier says. "You might not have the intent, but you have the impact." #####
DO sweat the small stuff. Be aware of the way you carry yourself and the effect it may have on workplace interactions. You could inadvertently be sending the wrong message with even the slightest action, such as pointing when you speak or crossing your arms during meetings. "I realized I’m a very analytical person, so oftentimes when I’m in deep thought, I don’t smile," Collier says. " People would look at me and say, 'What’s wrong with you?' I had to train myself, and my clients, to smile more." #####
Get feedback via a coach or outside objective party. Gaining insight into your mannerisms and the way you present yourself is a good idea. Have someone shadow you for a day or videotape yourself, and get honest critique on your strengths and weaknesses, Collier suggests. "When you become a leader, it's about influence," she adds. "You want to make sure your language [and mannerisms] are inviting and welcoming." #####
What might be OK for the employee may not be good for the boss. The trivial joke or casual communication can be inappropriate from a person of authority such as an executive, supervisor or manager, especially if its ill-timed. "Eliminate things like sarcasm because again, you don't want to express anything that might be taken the wrong way," Collier says. You want your staff and those who work under you to take you serious as a leader, so staying away from anything that might hinder that is key.#####
Find ways to ensure your staff or employees have the correct impression of you and your management style. "Pick specific dates and time on your calendar to say hello and get to know people," Collier suggests. Communicate clearly with your staff about your leadership style and various personality characteristics.#####
Be self-aware and personally responsible. "Learn how to be more comfortable in your own skin," Collier says. The more you understand yourself, the more you can be comfortable in your mannerisms and the more comfortable people are going to be in their interactions with you.
No comments:
Post a Comment