Fast-paced, exhausting and soul-sucking—those are the terms that employees use to describe the American workplace today. It’s not hard to understand. Even at the best workplaces, we have days where we feel like a cog in the machine of the business we serve, underappreciated and unseen.

Since you read the headline and clicked the link to read more, you are likely already doing better than most in valuing and honoring the people at your workplace. You know how important it is for morale, productivity and longevity of employment that each person is recognized as an important part of the work you do. 

As you work to honor each individual and their value, I offer four areas of focus that can help you do even better. As cornerstones of good leadership, these are important enough for us to stop and think intentionally about.

1. Communicate clearly

Clear communication is a gift to those around you. When you confuse people or communicate poorly, you are breaking down the confidence and morale of those around you. Clear, easy-to-understand communication builds trust and productivity. If you are unsure if your communication is clear, think about your message, then simplify it more. Use stories to illustrate points that aren’t technical and repeat your communication in different ways if needed.

2. Invest in people development

We assume that when someone has the technical knowledge they need to do their job, they should be able to do it well, all the time. Having the necessary technical skills is only a small part of what it takes to be effective in today’s workforce. As we work to honor those around us, investing consistent time and training into their development is critical. Whether it is a framework for weekly check-in meetings, leadership or team development, The Conversations That Matter can be a partner with you in this work – let’s talk.

Take the time to check in with those around you today. What is a short-term goal they have and how can you support them?

3. Ask questions and listen to the answers

Asking intentional and honest questions shows that you value others’ thoughts and expertise. Asking good questions isn’t hard. Just get curious about their work. Start by avoiding yes/no questions. Ask open ended questions like, “What would you do in this situation?” or “How can we solve this problem?” Next, pay attention to the things they are passionate or excited about. Dig deeper into those topic areas and ask questions like, “What makes you so excited about that?” and “Tell me more about that and how that will affect XYZ?” Finally, pay attention and listen well. Investing the time to really value a person in this way will create trust and open the channel for further dialogue and connection.

Think of a person you want to connect with and honor. What are they passionate about? What questions might you ask that would help you learn more about this topic? How can you make sure you are present and curious?

4. Practice Mindful Decision Making

There are two ways to go through your day. You can choose to mindlessly go about your business, making decisions and interacting with others without thought of the impact on anyone but yourself. Or, you can choose the right way— to MINDFULLY think about how, when and why you are doing what you do and how you relate to those around you. When we operate out of a place of mindfulness, we build stronger relationships with everyone we interact with.

Everyone wants to be seen, heard, understood, and valued for their contributions. Take time today to honor those around you!

How can we help? Set up a free Discovery call with The Conversations That Matter!