What’s the biggest challenge managers in your organization face? It’s probably not tied to subject matter expertise. Research shows it’s more likely the human element of management—how a manager motivates, communicates and responds to conflict, change and stress. PWC highlights that managers need to work together with organizational leadership to stoke and keep their best employees.

[WindRiver Strategies delivers Emergenetics as one of it’s coaching platforms]

So how can managers be better at…managing? How do you progress positive behaviors in managers that trickle down to employees?

The behavioral element of Expressiveness plays a huge role in helping managers communicate and connect with teams, direct reports and employees.

Expressiveness – How to Communicate and Express Yourself More Effectively

Managers—your team is likely very diverse, especially if you lead a large group or department. Diversity is good, but be aware, it will bring about a difference in how people receive your body language and vocal inflections.

Very gregarious and outgoing employees will:

  • Enjoy your constant movements
  • Respond to various tones of voice
  • Appreciate the full use of your environment. Walking to their desk, checking in frequently…walking and talking. All good.

A more reserved and quiet employee base will:

  • Prefer you to take a calmer approach
  • Will likely be paying very close attention to your words as opposed to your gestures and other extraneous aspects of communication.
  • Will want notice ahead of time as to when and why your speaking with them
  • Look to communicate in 1-on-1 environments or even electronically

Knowing that different employees need very real, distinct differences in your communication patterns is the first step in better communication as a manager.

Thanks to Mark Miller, VP/Emergenetics for the article.