Live & In Person …

For many, being a boss via Zoom has been challenging over the past year and a half. Stations are now starting to have meetings in person as opposed to video conferencing. As the transition back to the workplace unfolds, I’ve heard from some decision makers that they forgot what it was like leading live-and-in person. It’s a different dynamic to be the boss around people in the same workspace. For those of you getting back to face-to-face leadership, I thought I should remind you of a few things.

In-Person Feedback ...
Frequent informal feedback can push a staff forward. I always found it worked much better than letting a long list of things add up. If you wait for a formal meeting, the staffer becomes tense and less apt to remember any of the positive things you might say. It's next to impossible to teach or motivate if the person is uncomfortable. For some, being back with others without the isolated confines of Zoom, might cause some unexpected anxiety. So, the informal approach will help ease many back into regular group meetings.

Short & Sweet ...
One of the best things about video conferencing is that bosses have learned to keep the meeting shorter and focused on what needs to be covered. It’s one of the things that needs to be carried over into the "brick and mortar" job. With all the multitasking going on in the multi-platform world of radio these days, shorter meetings are more efficient. I'm sure your troops at work would appreciate the continued practice.

Be Nice ...
I had the pleasure of working for publisher John H. Johnson in Chicago at WJPC. Although I was never invited to it, rumor was that he had a room on his floor of the Johnson building that was used to get to the heart of the matter with employees. I was told he would make you wait in the room until he was ready to proceed. Psychologically, this might have worked, but I do not recommend using a similar tactic unless your intentions are to cause your employee mental anguish and possible loss of bodily functions.

You'll Get A Better Sense ...
Once again, you will have the opportunity to give people one-on-one time that will be invaluable for the intangibles that video conferencing can't provide. The kind of communication that can lead to a healthier bond of trust with an air personality. Being the boss around people again will give you a clearer vision of what's going on with your station.