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Employee silence can be dangerous. Some of the union victories in recent years were based not on economics, but rather the grievances of young workers who feel they do not have a voice. Frontline leaders can and should correct that. Timid employees may find their voice if they are convened in smaller less intimidating groups. For the most silent, one-to-one meetings between leaders and followers are a proven way to break the silence.
One Japanese auto manufacturer requires every supervisor to start each work shift with a “huddle”. In this standup meeting, current issues are discussed. Every worker is invited to introduce issues or ideas that will make the job better.
Everyone should have a voice. If your workgroup is notable for pockets of silence, you have a significant problem which should be corrected. It should be clear throughout the management team that everyone in your warehouse should have a voice.
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