Employees need to know the WHY

When you hire, train or coach an employee do you communicate WHY it’s best to do something one way over another. Or do you simply say or imply, ‘because i said so’ , or ‘it’s always been done that way’?

Far too often individuals do not communicate the why. Why it’s important not to stick your hand under a machine guard. Why it’s important to wear your personal protective equipment. Why it is important to lift heavy items with two people and not go at it alone. Why you don’t want to see individuals get hurt. Why it’s important to report near misses to others immediately. Why. Why. Why.

If you are unsure of how to communicate the why - do it in a story. Everyone loves a story.

It’s important to pay attention and use the safety guards. We don’t want you sticking your hand under the guard because we don’t want to see you get hurt. Once an employee did it and lost the tip of their finger. We don't want that to happen to you or anyone else. If there’s ever an issue with any of the guards, please let me know. We care about your health and safety.

Sometimes you may be asked to lift a heavy item. If it looks to big, heavy or awkward, please ask a colleague to help you. And if you see a fellow employee doing the same, please offer to help. We don’t want to see you or anyone get hurt and lifting is one of the leading causes to workplace injuries. Be safe out there.

It only takes a minute to communicate the why. And by not doing so you are missing a huge opportunity for success. For yourself, your business and your fellow employees.

Do you have a WHY story that has impacted you or someone you know? If so, please share :)