Circuits Overloaded: Part 3 – Can Managers Really Keep Employees Plugged In & Connected?

As we continue to explore the real issues and warning signs that arise from circuit overload - like poor morale, disengagement, disloyalty, and poor productivity in the workplace – it’s important to remember that burnout, meltdown, and survivor syndrome (doing more with less) issues can cripple businesses when not addressed!  Think about your answers to the following questions (stay tuned for correct responses):

• Question One: What’s the #1 thing managers want their employees to do every day? 
• Question Two:  What’s the #1 reason employees leave their job?
• Question Three: Can managers really keep employees plugged in & connected?

No matter what the industry or business sector, “Positive Workplaces” are built on successful “P2P” (people-to-people) relationships, beginning with the most critical component, the manager-employee partnership that sets the tone and impacts the entire workplace. If the environment is toxic and highly charged with negativity, employees will be disengaged and de-motivated.
There’s no time like the present to “reconnect” with your employees and team members and be ready for the upturn! So, turn up your dimmer switch a few more notches! Here are five practical tips to help managers and supervisors create a more positive and supportive environment:

• Expect & Engage More!  Make employees aware of expectations – of the organization itself and their role in it. Address their concerns and fears, and relate to them on a personal level. This can help build trust and loyalty, improve communication and create the kind of work environment where people want to perform at their best!
• Recognize & Reward More!  Nothing motivates employees more than recognition and reward for their accomplishments and contributions. This will show that you care about them and their work and, will provide them with a power surge and greater incentive for completing tasks.
• Give More Control!  If employees are having problems handling an increased workload, invite them to be part of the solution rather than dictating solutions. When you give them more choices in their job, even small ones, they will feel more in control, less stressed and, more likely to feel positive about their work and the organization.
• Have More Fun!  Encourage employees to socialize and, yes, have fun in the workplace! Celebrating birthdays, service anniversaries, project milestones, positive customer feedback and TGIF will improve workplace relations and relieve tension. The bulk of our days are spent at work, so why not enjoy the ride!
• Be More Transparent!  Keep employees in the loop as much as possible by providing information about the wellness of the organization. Stress, fear, and anger can be lessened in terms of how an organization approaches layoffs or other budgetary constraints. We can be professional and still have a heart. Be humane, and, of course, legal. If layoffs, job consolidations or other reorganization tactics are a possibility, being honest with employees and providing a timeline will keep employees in the present and will cut down on the destructive rumor-mills and gossip-chains.

Remember…Now more than ever, we need to stay “connected” in a positive way, and I don’t mean “T2T” - always using technology!  Focusing on the ever-important “P2P” (people-to-people) relationships – will build trust, understanding, and loyalty – all of which lead to happier people/employees, a more productive work (and home) environment, and a healthier bottom-line. We need to be clear and focused about creating a more positive work environment. It’s what pulls people together and what helps organizations and businesses survive! 

Are you ready for the upturn? Not sure where to start? Helping front-line employees maximize their potential and improve business results is my goal each day.  I can help! Let’s talk… “P2P!”

p.s.  Here are the correct responses…How did you do?
Q1 - Answer: COME TO WORK! 
Q2 - Answer: The lack of recognition from their immediate supervisor/ manager.
Q3 - Answer: Positively!

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Stay tuned for next month’s edition…

MJ Paris

P.S. Do you know someone who needs "Positive Energy" in their workplace? Feel free to forward this issue to friends, family and colleagues!

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Mary Jane (MJ) Paris brings a broad base of experience in management, leadership and employee development gained from more than 25 years in sales management, retail banking, training, recruiting, project management, event planning and community leadership.
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