CRA Inc

17 Dec 08 @ 2:22 pm

Social Networking at Work

Amid the current financial crisis, leadership teams and C-suite executives in organizations of all shapes and sizes are having discussions about ways to reduce uncertainty and boost employee morale. While leaders realize that communication is critical to transparency and credibility, executive teams are exploring additional ways to increase employee engagement during these turbulent economic times.

In doing so, researchers are finding that well-connected employees, those who have extensive social networks that bridge gaps between departments (or silos), are more likely to do better at work. As a result, social networking tools are becoming an integral component to enhancing employee engagement and elevating employee performance.

Consequently, maintaining consistent leadership communication paired with opportunities for employees to build social relationships with others at work will not only build employees’ level of trust, but will also give them a sense of community within the organization.

Prior to getting started, keep in mind that some social networking tools might fit better in your company than others. To that point, before implementing a social networking tool in your organization, consider the following critical next steps:

• Create a social networking advisory council of well-connected employees who can audit the organization and evaluate employee needs and wants.
• Identify social networking tools that work best inside your organization and fit into your company culture.
• Recognize potential obstacles in the implementation of these tools in your organization.
• Set realistic expectations around tasks and timelines for implementation.

For more information about social networking at the office, click here. Or, to read more about communication advice for leaders during the financial crisis, click here.

posted in category(s): Miscellaneous, Coaching Points, Points of Interest