Employees these days want to feel engaged in their work at a company that supports them. Having engaged employees requires building a company-wide culture of trust, however. Building trust with your employees takes time, but it pays off in the long-run, so here are ways to start!
Be Honest and Transparent
A good way to build trust in your business is to be honest and transparent with your employees. Being transparent increases your employee’s trust and makes them feel more engaged in the business. Transparency to employees, shareholders, and other stakeholders also demonstrates that your business is stable and secure. Lack of transparency makes those involved in your business nervous that you are withholding important information from them. If you are transparent with your employees they will feel more comfortable providing you with honest feedback.
Connect With Your Employees
Connecting with your employees makes them feel valued, which can increase retention. You can let your employees know they are valued by asking them to share their input about the business and the work environment. This shows you care about them and are willing to make improvements that will benefit them. Company leaders should also try and connect with employees on an individual level. A gemba walk involves walking around and asking questions about what goes on in the workplace. Another good way to connect with your employees is to provide relevant career development opportunities for them. This shows them you are committed to helping them grow in your organization.
Lead By Example
If you want your employees to trust you, you should lead by example. Demonstrate in word and action that you trust your employees. One way to do this is to let them do their work with little oversight or micromanagement. Empower them to solve problems and come up with solutions on their own. Your employees should feel like they can come to you if they need you, but not feel like they have to run every decision they make by you. Being positive and engaged in your work encourages your employees to do the same.
You can create the kind of work culture you want at your business by showing your employees that you trust them and encouraging their feedback. Employees will feel more connected to the company if you are transparent with them about your business operations. An investment in your employees is an investment in the success of your business.
Businesses are made up of people, but how do you find yours? Framework 4 Freedom can help you establish a business people want to work at!