Speaking up at Work
Speaking up and giving opinions and ideas at work can be a frightening situation for many employees. Some common myths are that it doesn’t matter what you might say because your employer doesn’t want to hear them. Other people may worry that it will put them in an unfavorable position with their employer. Neither of these ideas are accurate. As the people in the “gun fire” of their jobs, employers find that speaking up from the people who know the procedures and rules help their company improve standards, efficiency, and morale.
Here are a few tips to consider incorporating in your office when speaking up:
Do not be a constant complainer or whiner. When you continue to complain about situations, you eventually become the problem employee. Provide a solution to your problems. For example, there is a constant issue when receiving applications that information is missing. Instead of complaining about that particular subject, create a checklist to accompany the application so you can provide a guide to what information is needed. After you create it, present it to you manager, and suggest that it be implemented for more efficient production.
Do not present yourself as an all knowing expert on every subject. Only speak up when you are familiar with the situation and are able to provide strong supporting ideas. By constantly offering ideas, employers will begin to question your motives, and also begin to not take you seriously.
Provide detailed, explicit information and be able to back up your ideas. Do not offer advice on a trial basis.
Make sure that when speaking up, your ideas are for the betterment of the entire company, not only for your own personal gain.
Do not be discouraged when your ideas are dismissed. In many cases, employers must consider many factors before implementing new ideas and procedures. These include current bi-laws, economic factors, corporate impact and whether it is for the betterment of the entire company. Your ideas and suggestions are appreciated and respected. Most employers see this as you taking your job seriously and in turn will take you more seriously.
Be professional. Do not make current procedures and instructions seem insignificant. When describing your ideas to management, speak of it as an improvement to the current structure. Making the current procedures seem foolish may insult the employees who decided to implement them.
Employers want to hear from their employees. Make sure that you are constructive and effective when offering your ideas. Working in fear that speaking up will result in losing your job will make working conditions worse. Remember, just because you offer an idea to your employers that shows effective results, does not mean they will implement it. Do not let this discourage you, and continue to show that you care about your job. Effectively speaking up can also improve your position within the organization. Keep these tips in mind, and you can be a happy, productive employee.
