Humans are emotional beings, some more than others and some less than others, but we are all at the mercy of our emotions on some level. The higher up you go in an organisation, the more important it is to connect with your employees on a personal level. Show people you work with that there is more to your relationship than the job. Here are three ways to forge these connections:
1. Give your undivided attention. This sounds simple, but it's easy to overlook when you are overloaded with ringing phones and packed inboxes. In conversations, put everything down and focus exclusively on what's being said.
2. Remember emotions are contagious. If you're feeling particularly anxious or negative, make an effort to quarantine yourself. When you're feeling especially buoyant, go to more meetings and spend more time with others.
3. Get out there. Even if you're an introvert, reach out to people, engage them in discussion, and actively provide feedback. You can't connect from behind a closed office door.
The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme and adapted from Three Ways Leaders Make Emotional Connections. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please contact us.
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