Walking the talk effectively: How to practice MBWA

Your management duties shouldn't prevent you from getting away from your desk and talking to employees as much as possible.

"Management By Walking Around" can enhance your overall efforts to communication and engage with your workforce.

Just remember these caveats:

• You may not agree with everything you hear. Don't punish people or get angry when they disagree with you, as long as they do so respectfully.
• You'v egot to stay focused. One-on-one conversation show people you take them seriously. Don't try to include everyone in your informal talks.
• Business isn't everything. Don't limit yourself to what's going on around the office. Ask about families, activities, and anything else to show your interest in employees as individuals.

SOURCE: The Manager's Intelligence Report -- Adapted from the Washington Business Journal