What attributes make a great CEO? Must they be business savvy? Experienced in business? Able to think clearly during tumultuous times? Personable and a great at communicating?
A yes to each question above adds to a CEO’s efficiency, but this article will focus on the last question. It is of paramount importance a CEO is an effective communicator. Fostering lines of communication to the public, peers, and employees is necessary. A CEO obviously needs to know how to relate to their markets and their industry; yet, some CEOs neglect the fact their success is contingent on positive communication with their employees.
The following addresses five ways an executive can have great contact with staff.
Forums
Depending on the size of the company, CEOs may not always have time to directly address their employees. Forums provide the opportunity to be in the presence of employees and to personally announce company visions, short and long-term plans, as well as other pertinent company information.
Forums can focus on general company information or concentrate on certain topics. Forums present a time with employees, so it is best its structure does not resemble a lecture. It should be orally reciprocal and contain time for employees to ask questions and voice their own concerns.
Visits
As aforementioned, a site’s size will influence the convenience of communication. If a CEO does not immediately work in the same building as some of their employees, it is necessary to visit them. It is advantageous for a CEO to experience what working conditions are like for their employees and how each site is internally structured. This way, the ‘company’ becomes less abstract; employees can ‘see’ for whom they work, and the CEO will know the people that comprise their business venture.
Forms of recognition
It is always a wise decision to not only keep an eye on employee performance, but to also give them regular feedback. Accommodations are another way to communicate with employees. It lets them know they are being surveyed and valued by the company, and specifically by their boss. Scheduled and regular input is recommended at the very least, but providing physical awards and recognition is also a nice touch.
Diffuse leadership
A CEO needs to communicate with all employees, but he cannot be everywhere at all times. This means that spreading the responsibility of leadership becomes an important part of running a company. The CEO should regularly meet with their team of executives in order to get information on all aspects of the business and to vicariously relay information to all employees through the executives.
Voice on paper
As mentioned, a CEO cannot be in all places at all times; yet, their voice can be heard by many via a blog. Blogs are a good way to keep employees informed of
public relations happenings, policy and procedures, and other important company-wide information. It is a convenient way to maintain a consistent presence.
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