How to establish a climate that encourages feedback

1. Worth Repeating.

‘Subordinates discover quickly what leaders want and supply that information to them. But subordinates are unlikely to provide negative feedback or give supervisors bad news since they fear that, much like ancient messengers delivering bad news, they will be punished. The familiar story of “The Emperor’s New Clothes” illustrates unwillingness of subordinates to communicate honestly to superiors. Responsible leaders work hard to prevent bottlenecks and keep channels open up, down, and throughout the organization by (1) establishing an appropriate working climate and adjusting their communication behavior to fit the situation, and (2) practicing techniques to improve communication in their organization.’

– Dr John A. Kline, ‘Communication and Leadership’, Concepts for Air Force Leadership

The single most important factor in determining the climate of an organization is the top executive.’

– Charles Galloway

‘For 20 years you have paid me for my hands and you could have had my head for free, but you didn’t ask.’

– Retiring Employee

‘Learn to accept unsolicited feedback without expressing an opinion’.

– Marshall Goldsmith

2. Ask yourself

Campaign Consultation, Inc., recommends asking

yourself the following questions:

• What do new volunteers encounter when they enter your organization?

• Is the organization an orderly, cheerful space?

• Who greets new volunteers? Are they greeted as if guests and new team members are welcome?

• Is there a predominant culture? How would someone who is different in some way be made to feel comfortable?

• What is the informal culture of the organization? Who talks to whom? Do staff greet each other? Do they talk about their lives, or is it an “all business” environment? Is there much gossiping? Are snide comments about management or other employees made? Do they share information about their projects or programs?

• How do the staff feel about having volunteers?

• Is there space and office equipment for volunteers?

• How do they become part of the team?

3. Organizational climate and volunteers.

Many non-profit organizations depend on volunteers to enable delivery of cost-effective services. Research continues to show that new volunteers are more likely to stay if the climate in which they find themselves is supportive of their efforts. …