Be clear about your preference for how those on your team communicate.
If you prefer face-to-face meetings over emails or texts, let your team know. Encouraging them to talk with one another will both demonstrate that you value the importance of communication and it will increase trust because they will realize that transparency is the norm.
Make opportunities for active engagement at work
If you are clear about two-way communication, and you set work/department expectations alongside being open to opinions and suggestions, your team likely will be motivated and more engaged in their work. Enthusiasm is contagious, so have a positive mindset and make it a priority to publicly praise those on your team who have done something particularly well.
Allow time for casual conversation, laughter and creativity
We all know the saying about “all work and no play,” and nobody wants a dull team. Scheduling time for events where there can be chats about non-work topics is important. Some teams have team-building exercises which are both a stress reliever and a good way to get to know your colleagues in a new light. In one of my former jobs, we had a yearly event where everyone brought their favorite pie and shared them with each other. Good memories are also made from these light-hearted gatherings.
Encourage your team to learn something new
This will show that you believe in them and want them to continue growing and advancing. You should be able to offer time or money or both in order for them to participate in programs, conferences or courses. This will make them more proficient and will increase happiness in their work.
Create opportunities for cross-departmental teamwork
Having your team work with others will expose them to different approaches to their work and also allow them to get to know interesting colleagues. Perhaps have faculty and staff work together on a project or schedule a brain-storming session with another department to come up with solutions to a shared concern. These activities do not need to be on-going or time-consuming and they are helpful.
These are just a few ideas that managers and department chairs can implement that are proven ways to have a better connection with your team and see them flourish at work. HR and the Provost’s office can help with programming questions and the Ombuds Office can help with communication strategies.
