Employees Have A Voice? Really?

I can not begin to count the number of meetings, webinars, and conferences I attend that discuss employee morale.  The real issue here though is employee voice.  But what in the world is employee voice, and why should I care? 


Be The Best


Our perpetual quest to crown ourselves the best employer in the market, or the coveted yet completely unattainable Employer of Choice is often driven from the concept of employee voice.  But what does that mean?  Haven’t we all ready created cultures in our organizations that foster communication, and the sharing of ideas, issues and concerns?


Survey and Learn the Truth


Using employee surveys can be a good start, but the goals of these engagement surveys are often misunderstood.  Sometimes being the best company means you are actually the worst. The outcome should be a renewed commitment to communicate, communicate, communicate.  Does it really make a difference in the life of an employee if your survey score moves from 3.5 to 4.0?  Answer?  No way.  But the announcement to the employees that they all feel great sure is satsifying, right?





Scott Adams


Create the Opportunity for Voice


Creating a positive employee relations environment can take on many forms, from recognition systems and effective leadership training, to grievance processes and establishing an onsite employee ombudsmanTalking about the culture of an organization is one thing, hardwiring employee voice is very different.  The good news?  The results can be terrific for employees. So don’t be afraid to lead!  


What About You


Do you believe your own press releases; or, have you challenged other leaders in your organization to make a difference?  How are you ensuring your employees have a voice?  I’d love to hear from you.


No Excuses.