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Stand By Your Staff, Tell All the World You Love Them"
MENLO PARK, Calif. -- Actions speak louder than words, it's been said, and it may be even more accurate in the workplace. In a recent OfficeTeam survey, 28% of workers said their bosses could be more effective by standing up for their staff when needed. Putting a lid on office politics was cited by 24% of respondents as a way for employers to improve communication.Survey respondents were asked, "In which one of the following areas do you think your boss could communicate more effectively?" Other responses include:Talking less and listening more: 22%Encouraging people to take breaks: 11%Something else/none of the above: 13%Don't know/no answer: 2% "Most employees expect their managers to have solid communication skills to assign projects and keep the department running smoothly," said Diane Domeyer, executive director of OfficeTeam. "However, more subtle behaviors can also enhance the work experience. The best employees want someone who will be their advocate."Communicating with staff -- and on their behalf -- plays a vital role in building job satisfaction, Domeyer said. "Managers who promote employees' viewpoints, support their staff and limit the impact of office politics show they value and respect their team members," she noted. "In leading by example, they not only encourage staff to develop similar skills but also promote a more positive corporate culture."Domeyer offered these tips for better communication at the office:Don't fuel the rumor mill. It exists in every organization and goes into overdrive when managers limit top-down communication. If your staff doesn't hear the news from you, they will likely get it from another source.Hold all employees to the same performance standards. Be consistent in communicating and maintaining your expectations for quality. Letting certain employees or situations fall under the radar can fuel speculation of favoritism.Observe and listen during meetings. How do others speak to and about your staff? If people are being questioned unfairly or criticized, speak up in their defense.Be accessible. Don't let e-mails and voicemails stack up without acknowledging them. If you can't address questions immediately, tell your staff when you can.Ask questions. One-on-one, impromptu discussions with team members can give you an indication of any political issues brewing before they escalate.OfficeTeam has more than 300 locations worldwide and offers online job search services, according to a company news release.Visit OfficeTeam: www.officeteam.com "