Stop evaluating employees based only on hard numbers
As Psychology Today notes, many managers evaluate subordinates solely on hard numbers, such as sales results, efficiency, and so on. In that case, they should not be surprised when their employees feel like machines. Include soft criteria in your evaluations as well: for instance, whether an employee helps colleagues, continues to educate themselves, or contributes to a positive team atmosphere. These are also important and should be recognised.
Don't use corporate jargon: communicate transparently
If you bombard subordinates with vague corporate slogans and meaningless jargon, they will understandably feel you are not being honest with them or treating them as equal partners in communication. Avoid empty corporate language; instead, communicate in a human, honest, and open way.
Offer constructive, genuinely valuable and honest feedback
Honesty and constructiveness should also define the way you deliver feedback. This is your opportunity to show individual employees you care about their development and value their work. When providing feedback, be positive but honest, and help subordinates truly improve.
Learn how to listen well
The most effective way to apply a human approach is listening genuinely and sincerely to what your employees have to say. Don't ignore their suggestions. Take an interest in their opinions and feelings, and learn to recognise the early signs of problems they may be experiencing.
-mm-