You’re the boss, the leader, the master of business, yet your team is becoming increasingly frustrated with your overuse of technology in the workplace. Influence is essential to running a successful organization and can only be earned through the development of trust, credibility and respect. It comes from a leader’s consistent actions, execution and communication. Technology is no exception. It’s time to consider your digital behaviors and how bad habits may be costing you influence in the workplace.
Put down the phone. Your time is not more valuable. When an employee approaches you to discuss the ongoing status of a project, they already know the value their time is worth and expect to have your full, undivided attention in return. Few things are as disrespectful than a leader who interrupts a conversation with an employee to answer the phone or monitor incoming texts (aka phone snubbing or “phubbing”). When you’re with an employee, nothing matters more than their time and your respect for it.
Hang up the email. Pick up the phone. Few things frustrate people like back-and-forth emails that could have been resolved in minutes on the phone. Employees are likely overwhelmed in their workday, battling through a barrage of noise and distractions. They rely on their leader to be clear and concise in all communication. Since emails lack tone, inflection and body language, they are easily misconstrued. What is said by the writer isn’t always accurately interpreted by the reader. The tradeoff for the perceived convenience email gives isn’t worth the time it takes to clarify confusion caused by a misunderstood message.
Stop being a texting tycoon. I once worked with a leader who engaged with his employees daily. He regularly checked on them, inquired about their day and how he could help. His intentions were great and would have worked except for one little problem — he did it all via text messaging.
Think about that. Employees are trying to talk with clients on the phone, answer colleague emails, attend meetings and all while their smartphones are blowing up with text messages from their leader. Because the messages came from their boss, they obviously felt pressured to respond immediately, often interrupting important tasks and conversations requiring their utmost concentration. Worse still, when the boss visited employees face-to-face, they quickly questioned his motives for doing so. Eventually, this behavior developed into an organizational culture accepting of digital interruptions and distanced engagement. Text messages are great for confirming appointments, sharing phone numbers or quick data points. They are not to be used as a method of engaging in meaningful communication.
Stop Cyber Stalking. Calling to leave a message, following up with an email on the subject, texting to say you’ve called and emailed is inexcusable behavior. Your employees are hard at work tackling the priorities you’ve outlined for them. In their efforts, they may not always be available at a moment’s notice. If you’ve called your employee and left a voicemail message, they will get it and return your call when the time is right. If you’ve emailed them, they will respond. If you’ve texted them, they will text back. You’re the boss and their priority, just give them the time necessary to respond without being overly demanding.
Technology is an excellent resource for everyone and when used appropriately, can support your efforts in establishing influence in the workplace. When technology is abused, it can cost you influence and create an atmosphere of frustration and unwillingness among employees. Be mindful of how you use technology and the impact it may have on others.
Stacey Hanke is the founder of Stacey Hanke Inc., a consultancy for helping leaders improve communication skills.
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