Managers often complain that their people are silent at meetings. They expect creative ideas or at least some opinions on current events, but the only thing they get is the impression that their subordinates are not interested in anything and unable to think creatively. The question is: What's wrong? You surely know the answer and you are right - it is the mistake of the manager. Managers often do not realize that the silence of their people is caused by their own behavior.
The following tips are from Erika Anderson, American consultant and author of books focused on managing people. She had gained the experience while coaching managers and summarized it on Forbes.com.
Beware of unexpected information
When you start a meeting with a completely new information and expect an immediate response, you should not be surprised that the response will not come. Most people need some time to absorb the news, ask questions and form an opinion. Therefore, try to tell your people what you want to hear from them at the meeting in advance. Give them a chance to think about the particular issue a day or two before the meeting.
Add a broader context
When you ask a question, your people should understand why you are asking. Therefore, it is not enough to just ask, "What do you think about this or that?" It is necessary to supplement the question with the explanation of what your future plans with the issue are and why the answers to this question are important for you.
Let others speak
Managers also make the mistake of not giving their people enough space to express their ideas. Although they ask for their subordinates' opinion, they almost immediately begin to explain their own one. Participants of their meetings quickly learn that their boss will provide the best answers to himself without their help and that they do not have to do anything else.
Do not discourage others by your negativity
Managers often tend to looking for reasons why something will not work. Their subordinates then soon get used to the fact that it is not worth coming up with anything new. They just wait until their boss tells them what to do. This certainly does not mean that you should agree with everything. However, you'd better learn how to disagree in a way not to discourage others. Let them finish what they want to say and be sure to tell what you like on their idea first. Only then express your concerns and discuss possible solutions.
Make use of your people's ideas
Nobody wants to waste time telling you something when his ideas will never be implemented. Your people need to see that you not only listen to them, but also that you use their ideas in practice.
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