Effective communication is a key component of strong leadership. When leaders are overly busy, unwelcoming, or follow a “silence is golden” philosophy, it can cause significant problems within an organisation. Employees rely on leaders for guidance, support, and validation, which can have a significant psychological impact. Cigna and Microsoft’s research emphasises the importance of effective leadership communication in maintaining employee engagement and reducing stress.
Leadership Communication and Psychological Impact
- When leaders being too busy to engage with their employees, it can lead to feelings of neglect and undervaluation among staff. Employees may begin to feel that their contributions are insignificant, which can decrease morale and motivation. This lack of recognition and interaction can cause stress and diminish job satisfaction. A workforce that feels undervalued is less likely to be engaged and productive. High turnover rates and absenteeism can become prevalent as employees seek environments where they feel more appreciated and supported. The absence of accessible leadership also hampers employees’ ability to seek guidance, affecting overall performance and innovation.
2. When leaders unwelcoming communication create a barrier to open communication, fostering an environment of fear and anxiety. Employees may feel isolated and reluctant to share their ideas or concerns. This lack of open dialogue can lead to feelings of frustration and helplessness. Poor communication can stifle collaboration and information sharing, critical components of a healthy organizational culture. This results in inefficiencies, decreased morale, and a lack of cohesive teamwork. Projects may suffer due to the lack of input and feedback from employees who feel unheard and undervalued.
3. When leaders practice of “Silence is Golden” approach can be interpreted by employees as a lack of transparency or even distrust. This can erode trust and loyalty, as employees may feel their leaders are withholding important information. The absence of communication can lead to confusion and uncertainty about organizational goals and expectations. This approach can result in a toxic work environment where employees are reluctant to voice their ideas or concerns. Without feedback, the organization cannot identify and address issues promptly, leading to systemic problems and a decline in overall performance. A lack of clear communication can also hinder strategic alignment and reduce employees’ sense of purpose and direction.
Research Insights:
- Cigna 360 Well-Being Report 2022: Found that 94% of hybrid workers in Singapore are stressed due to virtual overload and extended work hours (HCAMag).
- Cigna Healthcare Vitality Study 2023: Reported that 87% of Singaporeans feel stressed, with 16% describing their stress as “not manageable” (Malay Mail ).
These findings suggest that stress and disengagement are critical issues affecting the workforce in Singapore, emphasizing the need for better workplace support and strategies to improve employee well-being and engagement.
Ultimately, effective leadership communication has a significant impact on employee engagement and stress levels. Effective communication can help set clear expectations, provide needed feedback, and promote a supportive work environment, lowering stress and increasing engagement. In contrast, poor communication can exacerbate stress, resulting in disengagement and an array of negative outcomes for both employees and the organisation.
Bibliography
Cigna. (2022). Cigna 360 Well-Being Report 2022. HRD Asia. https://www.hcamag.com/asia/news/general/cigna-360-well-being-survey-shows-singaporeans-are-the-most-stressed/243341
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Cigna. (2022). Stressed in Singapore – The employer opportunity (Cigna Global Well-Being Survey – Singapore Insight Report). Cigna. https://www.cigna.com.sg/static/docs/pdf/Cigna_Singapore_360_Well-being_Report_2022.pdf
Cigna Healthcare Vitality Study 2023. Malay Mail. https://www.malaymail.com
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Microsoft. (2022). 60% of managers in Singapore say company leadership is out of touch with employee expectations. https://news.microsoft.com/en-sg/2022/06/10/60-of-managers-in-singapore-say-company-leadership-is-out-of-touch-with-employee-expectations/
