Talking Turkey: 4 Ideas for Communicating to Your Staff in Uncertain Times

Boy, these are tough days for businesses. One thing I’m certain of, though: even with the roller coaster the economy is putting business owners through, I’m so glad to own my own business, and am not at the mercy of some employer somewhere. As an entrepreneur, I have the security of knowing that no matter what, I’m really in control. But how do my employees feel?

How do yours feel? This post is about making sure your staff gets the information they need while you navigate these turbulent waters.

1. Talk turkey
It’s no use trying to pretend that things are all fine and good business-wise if they’re not — your team knows you well enough to sense when you’re worried. Real information is always more appreciated than no information, even if you think it will worry them, too. You don’t have to tell them everything, but let them know what’s going on so they can understand why you’re acting they way you are. If you’ve got good employees, they’re much more likely to help than to jump ship or take advantage of the situation. And if you’ve got iffy employees, the way they react to bad news is good for you to know — better that they do jump ship, or that you find a way to deal with them now before they have a chance to cause trouble.

2. Talk often
Don’t think you can just tell them once that things are uncertain and that’s that. Once you’ve opened up, you’ll need to give them updates. Is it better? Is it worse? Are there ways they can impact the situation? Don’t let their imaginations run wild in one direction, when your situation may be constantly shifting. Again, you don’t have to give them the entire story, but update them frequently. Give them five or ten minutes at the end of the staff meeting to let them know if your plans are working, or not. If it’s more serious, plan on more time for questions.

3. Notice things
What’s going on around the water cooler? Is there a different tone in the hallways? Are people looking at you just a bit differently, or keeping their eyes on yours just a little bit longer? You may think everything’s hunky dory, and everything may indeed be hunky dory, but your staff may be wondering anyway. They read the news reports, and hear the talk. They have friends and relatives who’ve lost their jobs. They’re wondering, “is everything okay here, or not?”

4. Ask questions
Ask your employees what they think. Ask them if they have questions. Ask them in groups, and ask them individually. Ask them what they’ve heard. Ask them what concerns they have. Then ask your accountant what he thinks. Ask your banker what he thinks. Ask your colleagues what they’re doing. Ask, ask, ask. You may be surprised at the great information you’ll get.

5. Don’t bear your soul
Think before you talk. Yes, it’s great to share information, and yes, your staff will appreciate the fact that you do. But remember that the situation you’re in now is only temporary, whatever it is. Next month it will probably be different. Your team looks to you to set the tone, and you still have to lead. If you’re worried, it’s okay to let them know, but keep that to a minimum. If you need to talk to someone about your concern, it should not be your employees — they still need to see your strength. Find another outlet. Don’t bear your soul to your team.

Internal communication during uncertain times is essential. Your team doesn’t have the luxury you do, of being in control. But you can talk to them, and let them know that you’re doing your best to look out for the company — and that means you’re looking out for them.