During a recent conversation, a manager announced proudly that they “promoted a culture of open communication”. I asked (nicely) how they achieved that and she became very defensive! After a painful pause she retorted that they had team meetings to encourage questions and ideas. Not letting this go, I asked if these were interactive with staff being honest and open? “No, they don’t say a word so everything must be fine” was the response – oh dear……

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There is no doubt that managing people can be tricky and frustrating but if she reacts to her staff in the same way she did to my innocent question, no wonder they stay silent. Perhaps she should ask herself…….

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• Do you ask open questions and actively listen?
• Do you take a collaborative approach to solving problems?
• Are you supportive – particularly when times are tough?
• Do you acknowledge and celebrate successes?