Don't Kid Yourself

Employees at all levels of companies often disclose issues and perceptions to me without worrying about politics and retribution. This gives me an accurate view of the corporate world.

I am convinced there is trouble within many home building companies, and that the root of this trouble is fear and lack of trust.

Here are terms I commonly hear regarding management: Unapproachable. Self-serving. Uncaring. Untrustworthy. Poor social skills. No common cour-tesy. No practicing what they preach. Unfulfilled commitments and promises. Superficial communication and feedback. Jekyll-and-Hyde personalities. Unreachable performance standards.

These comments are not from poor-performing employees, but A and B players. Compensation is not a company’s sole obligation to its employees. They also want to feel valued. As leaders, we can’t ignore or deny this any longer.

Create an open, caring environment, with full disclosure and honest communication. Be yourself. Don’t act coy or pretentious. Welcome employees’ opinions.

We owe it to ourselves and our employees to grow and change. It affects the heart and soul of your organization. Practicing what you preach and modifying your management style will have only positive effects on your bottom line.

Bill Carpitella is president and CEO of the Sharrow Group. Contact him at bill@sharrowgroup.com.