Last Saturday, Amazon workers shut down the BHX4 centre in Coventry. The strike marks a year since the initial pay dispute began. With minimal change taking place, many workers have been sharing their experiences working at the company.
One worker claimed: “To them, we are like robots rather than people. The little things that make us human, you can feel them being ground out of you.” A member of Amazon’s associate forum - an internal employee group that links staff and management – stated: “People were coming to us with the same kind of problems, again and again, but when I brought these up with management, nothing changed.”
When employees feel that their thoughts and concerns are acknowledged, they are more likely to be motivated and loyal to the organisation. Active listening enhances communication, trust, and collaboration, creating a more productive work environment. In this blog, we will delve into the significance of active listening and provide actionable strategies to create an environment where your employees genuinely feel heard.
1. Open Communication Channels
Establish multiple accessible avenues for employees to share their thoughts and concerns. Regular team meetings, one-on-one sessions, suggestion boxes, and anonymous surveys are effective tools for encouraging open dialogue. Ensure that employees feel safe to voice their opinions without fear of reprisal.
2. Empathy as a Core Value
Train employees and managers to actively listen and respond with empathy. Show genuine concern for their well-being and the challenges they might be facing, both in and outside of work. When employees feel understood, they are more likely to engage in meaningful conversations that often breed innovation and creativity.
3. Effective Feedback Systems
Implement a robust feedback system that not only allows employees to share their opinions but also provides a platform for them to receive feedback. Constructive feedback helps employees grow professionally and reinforces the idea that their development matters to the organisation.
4. Active Listening Workshops
Organise workshops or practical training sessions on active listening for all levels of employees. These workshops can help employees develop effective listening skills, teach them how to engage in meaningful conversations and create a more inclusive and empathetic work culture overall.
5. Acting on Feedback
Finally, and most importantly, listening alone is not enough; acting based on employee feedback is crucial. When employees see tangible changes resulting from their input, it reinforces the belief that their opinions matter and encourages continued participation. This is the key to employee well-being, motivation and loyalty.
"listening alone is not enough"
In essence, you must value your employees not just as workers, but as humans who are also active contributors to your organisation's success. Your team is the most pivotal aspect of your company – without them, you would often fail to deliver. So, when they air their concerns, implement the above - don’t just listen, act.