1 Way to Fix the Gap Between Office and Field
In many companies, there's a gap between the office staff and those working in different locations. You might be wondering, why does this gap exist? The answer is quite simple: communication.
Now, I know what you're thinking - isn't that obvious? Well, yes, it is. But let's dig a little deeper. This communication gap arises because the big bosses, or managers, often don't truly listen to the employees out in the field.
And by "listen," I mean really pay attention. It's called active listening, and it's crucial.
When we talk about active listening, it's not just about hearing words; it's about making your field employees feel heard. It means listening with the intention of understanding them.
So, the next time your field employee tells you about a problem, don't just brush it off. Even if you can't fix it right away, make them feel heard.
What your field employees really want is for you to get what they're going through. They are the ones out there, on the ground, facing issues firsthand. You, on the other hand, might be looking at things from a 30,000-foot level.
Remember, listening doesn't necessarily mean solving their problems immediately. It's about hearing them out, trying to understand how they feel. They want you to understand what's happening in their world.
Start by making them feel heard. It's the first step in closing the gap between the office and the field.