To get the most from any team, the leader must establish a productive rapport with each member. Of course, that’s easier said than done if you own a business with scores or hundreds of workers. Still, “the leadership connection” is critical for business owners to make with their employees.

Simply put, the leadership connection is an authentic bond between you and your staff. When it exists, employees feel like they genuinely know you — if not literally, then at least in the sense of having a positive impression of your personality, values, and vision. Here are four ways to build and strengthen the leadership connection with your workforce.

1. Listen & Share

Today’s employees want more than just equitable compensation and benefits. They want a voice. To that end, set up an old-fashioned suggestion box or perhaps a more contemporary email address or website portal for staff to share concerns and ask questions.

You can directly reply to queries with broad implications. Meanwhile, other executives or managers can handle questions specific to a given department or position. Choose communication channels thoughtfully. For example, you might share answers through organization-wide emails or make them a feature of an internal newsletter or blog. Video messages can also be effective.

2. Stage Formal Get-Togethers

Although leaders at every level need to be careful about calling too many meetings, there’s still value in getting everyone together in one place in real time. At least once a year, consider holding a “town hall” meeting where:

• The entire organization gathers to hear you (and perhaps others) present on the state of the business
• Anyone can ask a question and have it answered (or receive a promise for an answer soon)

 
Town hall meetings are a good venue for discussing the business’ financial performance and establishing expectations for the immediate future.

You could even take it to the next level by organizing a retreat. One of these events may not be feasible for businesses with bigger workforces. However, many small businesses organize off-site retreats so everyone can get better acquainted and explore strategic ideas.

3. Make Appearances

Meetings are useful, but they shouldn’t be the only time staff see you. Interact with them in other ways as well. Make regular visits to each unit, department, or facility of your business. Give managers a chance to speak with you candidly. Sit in on meetings; ask and answer questions.

By doing so, you may gather ideas for eliminating costly redundancies and inefficiencies. Maybe you’ll even find inspiration for your next big strategic move. Best of all, employees will likely get a morale boost from seeing you take an active interest in their corners of the business.

4. Have Fun & Celebrate

All work and no play makes business owners look dull and distant. Remember, employees want to get to know you as a person, at least a little bit. Show positivity and a sense of humor. Share appropriate personal interests, such as sports or caring for pets, in measured amounts.

Above all, don’t neglect to celebrate your business’ successes. Be enthusiastic about hitting sales numbers or achieving growth targets. Recognize the achievements of others — not just on the executive team but throughout the organization. Give shout-outs to staff members on their birthdays and work anniversaries.

It’s All About Trust

At the end of the day, the leadership connection is all about building trust. The greater your employees’ trust in you, the more loyal, engaged, and productive they’ll likely be. We can help you measure your business’ productivity and evaluate workforce development costs. Contact us for more information.