Miriam's advice for managers — get nosey!

Last week I had the pleasure of presenting a seminar at the Association of Government Call Centers (AGCCE) Conference. Hosted by the City of Minneapolis’ 311 Center, this event drew managers from the 311 centers across the U.S.  Miriam Vaughn-Lee the Director of Employment, Development and Diversity for the City of Minneapolis was the featured speaker at the general session. A veteran HR professional with 25+ years experience, Miriam had a lot to say about the special challenges leaders face during these turbulent times. Her suggestion that managers should make a habit of being “nosey” struck a chord with me.

To Miriam, being nosey doesn’t mean micro-managing your employees. Being nosey means being genuinely interested in, and curious about each employee as a person. She pointed out that each employee brings to their job a unique blend of life experiences, outside interests, skills, talents and biases. If managers don’t take the time to get to know thier employees, they won’t know what other talents and skills they have to offer.

She said that the best way learn what makes employees tick is to ask him or her a simple question, “What do you do outside of work?”  Miriam reminded the audience that employees are more likely to share information about themselves if the manager does the same.

This week have an informal conversation with a couple of employees you don’t know very well. No need to reveal anything too intimate. Simply chat about what you did over the weekend, your vacation plans or the movie you saw the other night.  You will find that when you are more open with them they will be more open with you. That’s the way it works.