Managers should Build, not Burn, Bridges

Seth Godin, in his recent blog Burning Bridges, talks about people who in their quest to achieve their goals, can burn bridges along the way which not only damages their relationships but also their reputation.   How can managers build or repair bridges with their staff?

iStock Build Bridges Managers should Build, not Burn, Bridges

  • Be approachable and encourage your staff to be open and honest with you.
  • Ensure that your staff feel safe and supported.
  • Recognise the source of conflict when it happens; encourage those involved in the conflict to clarify their perspective of the conflict without judgement from you.
  • Manage disagreement or conflict quickly: don’t try and convince staff that you are right; instead bridge the gap between their view and your view.
  • Admit your mistakes and learn to say sorry.

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