What’s important to employees?

While much has already been written about what’s important to employees in 2021, there’s one thing every worker has always valued from their employer.

Some excellent articles have already been written around what employees want in 2021. Employees want to have input in when and where they work. They value working within a diverse team. They want to be measured on the value they deliver, not the volume. And they expect to be given the space and trust they need to do their best work, wherever they happen to be.

While I have little no argument with such lists, what I see from my time consulting across a wide variety of industries is not so much what employees want in 2021, but what workers have always valued from their employer: communication. Knowing where the business is going and the employee’s place in this.

According to statistics, 57 percent of employees report not being given clear directions and 69 percent of managers are not comfortable communicating with the employees in general. Why? Because not all leaders are comfortable with the responsibility. The fear of hurting people’s feelings and dealing with potential drama and retribution hold many managers back.

There’s also the factor of business owners assuming their leaders filter communication down to their team. But if two-thirds of managers are uncomfortable communicating with their employees, is that assumption reasonable? I’m reminded by the quote from playwright George Bernard Shaw:

“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”

There’s little doubt effective communication is essential for healthy business relationships, team building, and employee engagement. Statistics show employees are more motivated when they are provided regular updates on the business. Organisations in which employees are constantly connected with their employer see higher levels of productivity…up to 25 percent, according to McKinsey. And what business would not like improved output across the board from their team?

Now here’s the best part: the cost factor. Communication can be free. Compare that to the expense associated with other other employee productivity and welfare initiatives. Why wouldn’t you give it a shot?

Ready to boost your business by optimising your business communication? Bare Bones Consulting can show you where to start…and how to keep it going in your business. We know what works, what doesn’t and what employees value in communications from their employer. Let’s do it!