Quote:
Originally Posted by 2ArmBands
Once normal office life resumes…
Grab a cup of coffee and walk around once a day and talk to your reports individually. It doesn’t necessarily need to be about work and it doesn’t need to be more than a couple of minutes.
Ask how their weekend was, ask how their kids are doing. Ask if they are challenged, ask if their plate is full, ask about their hurdles. Just talk to and engage them.
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Absolutely this.
The value of face to face communication in an age where the vast majority of it is done virtually cannot be overstated. Makes all the difference, and it takes one brief conversation to have a person feel like their work and presence really is valued, which is essential.
Conversely, the effect of complacency on that front has a trickle down effect as every one below you cuts corners and becomes increasingly dissatisfied and less communicative as a result of working in an environment where they feel like a spoke on the wheel, more than people.
Biggest mistake I've seen in my workplace lately is the big boss bringing in immature managers with poor listening skills, who talk about themselves but suck at asking questions and building rapport, and who take hints of distespect personally. It's a recipe for disaster.