Imagine your employees are facing a threat. There might be panic, some may try to exit the building, and some may freeze on the spot, only to become a victim. Others may stand up to defend and protect one another. You may be thrown into a situation where chaos ensues and no one knows how to react, looking to you for help. All you do is stand at a loss for words. This doesn’t sound great, does it? That’s why we recommend safety communication with your employees. Here are three tips below.
“Effective communication during a crisis is essential to minimize confusion, manage resources, and coordinate a swift response.”
The Critical Role of Rapid Notification and Communication in Crisis Management: App-Based Solutions as Life Safety Devices by Jameson Ritter.
1) Listening = Safety Communication
The first and likely most important step to have effective safety communication with your employees is to listen. Be an active listener. Here is a tip:
“Use active listening techniques to help you understand the person’s message and build empathy: Mirror or repeat what the person is telling you
Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA).
- Paraphrase the message
- Summarize content
- Ask for clarification
- Acknowledge feelings
- Avoid reacting with criticism.”
Actively listening allows one person to express what they think about a subject. It also allows you to be paying attention to what they are saying, and to fully hear them before you respond. This is a good practice for any situation, but especially if you want to move forward with a safer environment.
2) Practice Team Bonding
Didn’t expect us to say, ‘team bonding’? It might surprise you, but spending valuable time with your employees and having the team spend do so increases trust and understanding. It allows everyone to develop an effective communication. You also want to be aware of conflict between your employees, and especially if certain individuals seem to have trouble getting along. We know not everyone will get along with one another, but being aware of those interactions and relationships can help you find ways to overcome negativity. It doesn’t hurt to try!
3) Create a Plan to Ensure Safety Communication
Once you’ve developed a good relationship and trusting connection with your employees and with each other, you should create a safety plan to ensure everyone is on the same page. You’ll want to practice safety drills in the chance of an emergency or threat. You’ll want to search for the best security technology for your business, whether that is a security system, an emergency alert app, or extra locks in your facility. When you evaluate what your business and employees need, you’ll be able to understand potential threats and your weak spots. Take advantage of those so you can have a strongly armed security system AND employees!
Safety Communication: Use APS
Does this overwhelm you slightly? We get it. Creating a solid plan where your employees care can be a challenge. It can also be hard to evaluate and understand exactly what technologies and safety precautions are effective. That’s why you’ve got us. We can help you know exactly what’s appropriate for your business and employees through a security and risk consultation. Contact us today!
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