Conversations about connections allow us to exchange thoughts and ideas to get a better understanding of each other and ourselves. In the workplace, a conversation can improve engagement, particularly when one-on-one talks focus on performance, productivity, ideas, and accomplishments.
Not everything, however, needs be conversation-focused to achieve good results. Leaders that know when to utilize technology like employee performance management software and when to meet in person can more effectively manage and engage team members.
Conversation Improves Engagement
People like to talk. Quality conversation improves morale and even has positive biological benefits. Studies show that human interactions can actually improve productivity in the workplace. However, overwhelming numbers of employees report that a lack of quality communication undermines success and productivity.
Training managers to communicate may be the key to improving performance. A recent Gallup poll revealed that most employees leave their jobs due to issues with management, with 17% saying management itself was the problem. Leaders that utilize 360-degree feedback techniques have improved coaching and communicating skills, leading to improved performance.
Technology Plays a Role in Boosting Performance
In today’s work environment, Communication isn’t limited to in-person discussions. Employee feedback management tools play a strong role in keeping lines of communication open and productive. Software platforms exist to run surveys to see how employees are doing, encourage staff to demonstrate their appreciation for coworkers work or offer forum-based features that encourage collaboration.
These approaches produce quantitative and qualitative data for managers to review for insights into the working conditions of their staff. Asking open-ended questions, for instance, encourages the sharing of opinions that can help managers improve their interactions with others. Quantitative data can help highlight trends and differences in opinions among various demographics within the workplace.
Utilizing the Right Techniques at the Right Time
Technology offers up channels of communication that are easy to access and efficient to use. Scheduling group meetings, pulse surveys, and quick chats for praise or check-ins can be integrated into daily or weekly routines. This will help to keep conversations going. It works less well when more controversial issues need to be addressed; this can range from performance issues to strategic planning.
Conversely, in-person conversations are better suited for in-depth discussions. Written words rarely portray the body language, mood, and attitude cues that provide a higher level of contextual understanding between speakers. A personal presence also strengthens bonds between coworkers, underlining the importance of the relationship for both parties. One-on-one conversations often provide better clarity when discussing individual goals, strategic planning, or sparking creativity.
Management Training Includes Technology and Personability
All managers benefit from improving their leadership skills. Oversight is more than checking off productivity boxes; it also includes managing real people with real issues. Through feedback platforms and discussions, managers and employees can develop trust with each other and keep the focus on job achievement.
By utilizing different methods of communication, managers can understand the individual needs of their employees and adjust their approach when it comes to providing performance coaching and reviews on a more personalized level. Knowing the right way to motivate each individual helps to recognize their uniqueness, improve engagement, and produce better overall performance.
