Kevin Burns Blog

Welcome, fellow supervisor! I’m thrilled that you’ve embarked on this journey to become a CareFull Supervisor. In our bustling workplaces, communication isn’t just about exchanging words; it’s the lifeblood that fuels productivity, trust, and camaraderie. So, let’s dive into the art of effective and respectful communication, shall we?

The Heart of the Matter: Your Team

Remember, your team doesn’t work for you; you work for them. It’s a subtle shift in perspective that transforms your role from someone with authority to an empathetic leader. As a supervisor, you’re not just managing tasks; you’re nurturing human connections. Let’s explore how you can weave this mindset into your daily interactions:

1. Listen Actively: Ears Wide Open 

Active listening isn’t about waiting for your turn to speak; it’s about immersing yourself in the speaker’s world. When your frontline warriors share their thoughts, be present. Put down that paperwork, look them in the eye, and absorb their words. Here’s how:

• Eye Contact: It’s like a silent handshake. Lock eyes, and let them know you’re fully engaged.
• Empathize: Imagine walking in their shoes. What do they feel? What challenges do they face?
• Ask Questions: Not the “gotcha” kind, but the curious kind. Show genuine interest.

2. Speak Clearly: No Jargon, Please 

Ah, the curse of corporate jargon! Let’s ditch it. When you communicate, aim for clarity. Remember, your team isn’t decoding hieroglyphics; they’re deciphering your words. Here’s how to keep it crystal clear:

• Simple Language: Use words that everyone understands. Skip the acronyms unless you’re playing Scrabble.
• Be Succinct: Brevity is your ally. Long-winded monologues? Nah. Short, impactful sentences? Yes!
• Repeat, Confirm, Clarify: Paraphrase what you’ve heard. Confirm understanding. Clarify doubts.

3. Positive Language: Sprinkle Kindness Everywhere 

Words have magic. They can uplift or deflate. So, choose the uplifting potion. Let’s brew some positivity:

• Appreciation: Praise like confetti! Celebrate wins, big or small. “Great job, team!” works wonders.
• Constructive Feedback: Sandwich it, my friend. Start with a positive, slip in the improvement, and end with another positive.
• Avoid Negativity: No thunderclouds here. Replace “You messed up” with “Let’s find a solution together.”

Takeaways for Your Toolbox 

1. Coffee Break Chats: Schedule informal chats with team members. Ask about their weekend, their pets, their dreams. These moments build trust.
2. Feedback Fridays: Make Fridays feedback-friendly. Share appreciations, discuss learnings, and sprinkle some growth dust.
3. The Power of “Thank You”: It’s a tiny phrase with colossal impact. Use it generously.

Remember, your words ripple through your team. Be the pebble that creates positive waves. Now, go forth, communicate with heart, and watch your team flourish! 

P.S. If you want more wisdom, dive into Kevin Burns’s book, The CareFull Supervisor¹. It’s like a treasure chest of leadership gems.

Takeaway Ideas:

1. Coffee Break Chats: Informal conversations build trust.
2. Feedback Fridays: Regular feedback sessions promote growth.
3. The Power of “Thank You”: Appreciation goes a long way.