Most of us have met that one person that just makes you feel good. After having a conversation with them, you usually walk away with a little more confidence. So if an individual can make you feel this way, a boss can do the same for their employees. Here are four ways to affirm your employees in the workplace.
1) Speak honest praise
Notice when an employee is doing their job well and compliment them on what they are doing well. Speaking honest praise means to see it, express praise, but be genuine in what you are saying.
2) Express appreciation
Appreciation and praise go hand in hand. Praise can be expressed in many ways, but a common form is appreciation. Appreciate the work they are doing and express that in whatever way you see fit that is also sincere to that individual.
3) Listen attentively
The workplace is usually operating at a fast pace. The employees know this and don’t want to bother the boss. So when an employee confronts you with an issue, or brings a new opportunity to the table, listen attentively. Hear what they are saying, listen to the whole message, use positive reaffirming messages and move forward from there.
4) Credit their contributions
If an employee presents an opportunity that ends up being successful, give credit where credit is due. It can be very frustrating to an employee when they work very hard on an idea and opportunity for it to be broadcasted without any credit.
Communication can be tricky sometimes. Using these four way guidelines in the workplace can promote a healthy, open communication line. It is important to affirm employees, express appreciation, listen attentively and to give credit where it is due. Be that boss, be that employee, be that friend, be that person who leaves others feeling more confident when the conversation is over.
Credit:
Dr. Jeremy Osborn, Cornerstone University.
