Approachability is a key trait that every professional should strive to cultivate. It’s a valuable skill that can yield numerous benefits in your career, including better networking opportunities, increased information access, and stronger relationships with colleagues. As a leader, being approachable is even more critical.
If your colleagues or direct reports find it difficult to approach you, you risk missing out on vital information, losing credibility, and being seen as unapproachable. Being an approachable leader is all about creating a work environment that is inviting, inclusive, and fosters open communication.
It’s important to note that effective leaders don’t rely on a stern or intimidating persona to command respect. While such a personality might instill fear, it can alienate team members and hinder their ability to connect with you on a personal level. In contrast, a great leader builds lasting relationships with their employees and creates an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and feedback.
Robin Camarote, the founder of Work Life Lab, explains that approachable leaders have an edge over those who aren’t approachable. Skilled conversationalists who maintain good rapport with others can get the inside scoop earlier than others who lack these skills. Being approachable is a crucial leadership trait that can have a significant impact on your career.
As you climb the corporate ladder, the value of approachability increases exponentially. Your employees will trust you more, and candidates will be more likely to open up to you during the hiring process. When you put people at ease, they can do their best work in your presence, and you’ll have a stronger network and greater loyalty from your team.
So, how can you become more approachable at work? Here are some tips:
Basic Communication: Greet everyone and convey that you care about them. Use their names, make eye contact, and give them your undivided attention. Ask them about their tasks, barriers they’ve encountered, and any troubling factors or distractions they may be facing outside of work.
Share Your Failures: Admitting failures may be tough, but doing so enables team members to talk about theirs. Putting pride aside and realizing it’s okay to admit your mistakes will only strengthen communication within your company.
Ask for Help: Asking for help provides opportunities for others to shine and ensures that you get the best solution and the right person for the job.
Physical Communication: Pay attention to your nonverbal communication, such as your posture, smile, nods, and eye contact. Ensure that your body language is positive and encourages people to speak with you.
Be Optimistic: Acknowledge issues, but commit to finding solutions. Great leaders can express confidence in their team’s ability to overcome challenges and get things done.
Get Feedback: Ask people you trust to give you honest feedback on how they experience you, particularly under stress. This way, you can address any unapproachable behaviors and ensure that you’re viewed as assertive and considerate, rather than unapproachable.
Be a Sounding Board: As a leader, you must also stay open and listen. Show compassion and empathy and let people know that they can always come to you. Making yourself approachable and accessible is the secret ingredient to great leadership.
Stay Curious: Stay open-minded and ask lots of questions. There’s always room to learn something new.
Takeaway
The importance of being approachable in the workplace cannot be overstated. Being approachable can make a significant difference in your career trajectory by improving your leadership skills and helping you build stronger relationships with your colleagues.
By implementing the tips outlined in this article, you can cultivate an inclusive and welcoming work environment that fosters open communication and builds trust. Being approachable means taking the time to listen to your team members, being open to feedback, and showing empathy and understanding in your interactions with others.
When you are approachable, your team will be more likely to come to you with their concerns, ideas, and feedback. This can lead to a more collaborative and productive work environment, as well as increased job satisfaction and employee retention.
In short, becoming more approachable is a win-win for both you and your team. By making an effort to implement the tips we’ve discussed, you can create a workplace where everyone feels heard, valued, and supported. So why not start today and take the first step towards becoming a more approachable and effective leader?