How to Welcome New Ideas and New Employees An expert weighs in on how to adjust to constructive feedback and fresh faces so that everyone feels at ease.
By Gael O'Brien •
This story appears in the July 2015 issue of Entrepreneur. Subscribe »
Q: Team members have told me they are uncomfortable with the meetings I run because they feel that I don't respect their input, that I tend to wave them off in favor of my own ideas. My partner expects me to change my style so we can get the most from our people. I don't think this is an ethical issue, but my partner disagrees. She says I'm getting pushier and shutting people down more and more, and that I don't understand the effect I'm having on morale.
A: You are lucky to have colleagues who care enough to speak up and help you see that words and tone of voice can cause harm.
Disrespect is an ethical issue. It kills trust and well-being, not to mention inspiration. No wonder your partner is concerned; your current style shuts down the people you should depend on for creative ideas and innovative approaches.
