As a boss you bear some responsibility towards your employees. We have often emphasized on the importance of communication in the workplace. Communication is not only important to put expectations in place but also helps us see how we can motivate our employees. But there are a few statements, that will quickly sideline you from the good boss track.
Lindsay Broder has summarized “7 things you should never say to your employees“. We felt that every boss or team leader should take these aspects to heart, because they really can make a huge difference!
1. I am the boss so you should do what I say
You do not want to create any disputes after you have worked hard for and earned your leadership position. The tonality of your speech needs to be motivational and empathetic. Trying hard to exert power is not how true leaders function. Of course, you are the decision maker, but there are definitely better ways to say it.
Never ask your employees to do something that you would not do in the first place yourself. It is as simple as: treat others the way you want to be treated.
2. If you do not want to do this, I will find someone else
This can be seen as power extortion. Something so plain Jane that may work on small children who are forced to eat vegetables so that they can see their favorite cartoons does not work with employees and team members. Fear is a short-term motivator but also a weird stress creator.
If you do not want to alienate your good workers, then motivate your employees with praise, recognition and positive energy.
3. You can be glad that you have your place.
This statement has nothing to do with motivation and your employees will not be interested in high performance. If you have a problem with one of your employees, then behave like a leader and share your worries and feedback in an open conversation. Maybe it’s just a little misunderstanding? Passing on such comments will not help anyone.
4. Why are you the only one with a problem with this…?
Whether this is an employee who constantly resists or someone else is always cooperative: Make sure you clarify what is really going on here. Alienating a good employee just because they do not share your opinion is not really the smartest approach. Who knows, maybe he has specific knowledge that allows him to have a different opinion- and ultimately save the business from a disaster.
It is always good to consider different perspectives in decision making. Even if this is a persistent issue, you need to deal with it in a mature manner through feedback rather than being critical like that.
5. You have no idea what stress means
Believe it or not, you are not the only person in the world who experiences stress. There are different types of stress and each person reacts differently. What completely upsets may be an easy game for someone else. You never know what your employees are going through personally and professionally so do not make comparisons.
6. I have no time for you
Then maybe you are also not in the right position?
7. Do you see the name on this door?
You can be proud of your achievements but you do not have so constantly rub it in. Show your impact and performance through action instead of making empty statements like that. Go ahead and set a good example. You can not afford to rest on your past success, or you will quickly be surpassed. Be an inspiration, role model and a guide for your employees. Strive for long-term success!
