Many CEOs around the world would be shocked to learn what is really going on in their organizations. Most know only what their direct reports want them to know. They receive “sanitized” reports on what’s happening around the organization. Those reports are rarely lies. But, they also lack the “color” that would greatly impact how the CEO receives the report.

The bigger the organization the less likely it is that the CEO will truly know everything that’s going on. It’s also likely that they don’t need to know absolutely everything that’s going on. But they would benefit greatly from knowing what’s being whispered in the hallways of their organization. In fact, it’s been said that if we listen to the whispers we’ll never have to hear the yelling. That’s because in organizations where the whispers are heard there is no yelling.

But hearing the whispers requires a connection that many people in senior leadership positions don’t have with their people.

Senior leaders can stay connected to their people through many strategies. These strategies aim to foster communication, understanding, and alignment within the organization. Here are some of the ways the most informed senior leaders stay connected to their people.

Regular Communication. Senior leaders should talk to employees often. They can use many channels such as team meetings, town halls, emails, blogs, and videos. This helps keep employees informed about company goals, strategies, and changes. It also gives a platform for feedback and questions. Just so we’re clear on this, “regular” doesn’t mean once a year during the holidays. When thinking “regular” also think frequent. Some form of communication weekly is not overdoing it.

Open-Door Policy. Senior leaders should keep an open-door policy. Employees should feel comfortable approaching them with concerns, ideas, or feedback. This accessibility fosters trust and transparency within the organization. A CEO’s door can’t always be open but scheduled open doors can be very useful. When people know their CEO is available to anyone from 1:00 – 4:00pm one day a week for example, it fosters a transparency that leads to truly open communication.

Employee Feedback Mechanisms. Implementing formal feedback mechanisms such as employee surveys, suggestion boxes, or regular one-on-one meetings allows employees to provide feedback directly to senior leadership. Actively listening to and acting upon that feedback demonstrates that their opinions are valued.

Employee Recognition Programs. Recognizing and celebrating employee achievements and milestones can help senior leadership connect with employees on a personal level. This can include shout-outs in meetings, awards, or personalized notes of appreciation.

Regular Check-ins. Senior leaders should check in with employees often. They should discuss the employees’ goals, challenges, and career aspirations. And I don’t just mean with their direct reports. An occasional random pop-in visit with lower level team members can be very eye opening for a CEO or senior leader. But understand it may take some time for team members to open up and give senior leaders the true “color” that’s often missing from their regular reports.

Transparency. Transparency about company decisions, performance, and challenges builds trust. It also fosters a sense of shared purpose among employees. Senior leaders should share relevant information. They should do so openly and honestly, even if it involves tough topics. Some information can’t be shared, especially in public companies. But, there is much more that can be shared than not. The best senior leaders share a much information as is possible.

Lead by Example. Senior leadership leads by example, whether they intend to or not. Their example should embody the values and behaviors they expect from their people. This includes demonstrating empathy, active listening, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Invest in People Development. Supporting people development through training, mentoring, and coaching programs demonstrates a commitment to growth and career progression. It also helps senior leadership stay connected with employees by understanding their skills, aspirations, and challenges.

Empower Middle Leaders. Senior leaders should empower middle leaders. They will serve as conduits between the senior leaders and frontline team members. Middle leaders can provide valuable insights into employee feelings and concerns. They also help spread strategic messages throughout the organization.

Social Events and Team Building Activities. Organizing social events and team-building activities creates chances for senior leaders to interact with staff. This happens in a less formal setting. This can help break down barriers and foster stronger relationships within the organization.

Above all remain visible. I know it’s super easy to fall into the trap called the “tyranny of the urgent.” We want to get the seemingly urgent tasks out of the way but we often do that at the expense of the important ones. As a leader, nothing is more important than the people you lead. When a leader forgets that, chaos ensues and yelling soon follows.

Put yourself in a position to hear the whispers and you’ll avoid the chaos and the yelling that goes with it.

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