Connecting with employees can be easier if we take some time to understand the human brain. Don’t worry; it is much easier than it sounds. Even though every person is different, all of our brains operate in a similar way.
A few years ago, I had the opportunity to be a facilitator with the National FFA Organization at the Washington Leadership Conference (WLC). The training I received to work better with students can also be applied to communicating better with employees.
Below are four ways you can communicate more effectively with your employees:
1. Inclusive language
Add “we,” “our” and “us” to the top of your vocabulary, and throw away “I” and “me.” Inclusive language brings you into the situation. Working on a farm is a team effort, and your employees want to know that you are participating too. Keep in mind with this type of language, you shouldn’t ask your employees to do something that you wouldn’t do yourself.
2. Repetition
Explain again, again and again. If there is an action you want done a certain way, you may have to share the main idea or specific details multiple times. For example, in an hour-long team meeting, we were taught to repeat the main message six times. Repeating the important tasks, creating a checklist or standard operating procedures (SOPs) for your employees will help them learn their role.
3. Groups of three
We learn and remember best when told tasks in groups of three. When giving directions, try your best to group each action item into three tasks. This will make it easier for your employee to remember and comprehend the given action.
4. Gems and opportunities
Giving feedback can be challenging. I recommend using the gems and opportunities idea. Start by giving gems or compliments, and then share opportunities for improvement. Starting with a compliment gives the employee a sense of accomplishment, and the feedback, given as an opportunity to improve, demonstrates that you care. This will help build a better relationship with your employees as well.
I recommend taking small steps with this. Take one recommendation from above and include it in your daily routine. Once you’ve conquered it, move on to the next item. With each recommendation, you will learn which ones your employees are most receptive to. 
The Dairy Strong Bloggers series is brought to you on behalf of the Dairy Strong conference, Jan. 23-24, 2019, in Madison, Wisconsin. This event focuses on cutting-edge technology, cultural trends and the future of the dairy community. Learn more and register at the Dairy Strong website.
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Joanna Guza
- Digital Communications Manager
- Dairy Business Association
