Lack Of Honest Communication Impacts Employee Morale The Most

Lack of open, honest communication has the most negative impact on employee morale, according to a survey developed by a specialized staffing service.

Accountemps, which recruits for accounting, finance and bookkeeping professionals, put together the survey. It was conducted by an independent research firm and was based on interviews with 150 senior executives.

"In an economy like this, communicating more regularly sets anxiety at ease," said Chris Cuilla, branch manager of the Tampa office of Accountemps Temporary Staffing Services.

Cuilla said employers need to "be really honest" so that employees know where they stand. He added that the imagination of employees "can get the better of them."

In response to the question, "Which one of the following has the most negative impact on employee morale?" one-third (33 percent) said lack of honest communication.

Failure to recognize employee achievements was second with 19 percent. Micromanaging employees was third with 17 percent. Excessive workloads for extended periods (16 percent) and fear of job loss (14 percent) were the other two responses.

The executives were also asked "In your opinion, what is the best remedy for low morale?"

Nearly half (48 percent) responded communication. Recognition programs ranked second with 19 percent and monetary awards for exceptional performance was third with 13 percent.

The other answers included unexpected rewards (11 percent), team-building events or meetings and additional days off (3 percent).

"Low morale equals low performance," Cuilla said.

As ways to foster better communication with staff, Accountemps suggests to not ignore unfounded speculation and half-truths. "Take control of the rumor mill to limit its potential to preoccupy employees."

The staffing company advises to respond quickly to individuals' requests for help and start conversations about how their work is going. "Also keep in mind that many employees feel more comfortable discussing their concerns if approached individually."