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United voices – the importance of two-way communication in the workplace
The importance of communication, employee engagement, and collaboration with colleague representatives, in the light of the Government’s changes in the Employment Rights Bill and ‘The Plan to Make Work Pay.’ People Director Liz Zukowski explains key ways in which you can use the upcoming Employment Rights Bill changes as an opportunity to enhance collaboration within your workforce.
As a CEO of an ambitious SME in the UK, you’re no stranger to the rapid changes affecting businesses, but the planned introduction of Labour’s Employment Rights Bill and ‘the Plan to Make Work Pay’, are complete game-changers especially for those leading small to medium- sized enterprises. Navigating your way around proposals contained in the Bill that include possible day-one rights, changes to zero-hours contracts, restrictions on fire and re-hire, the right to disconnect, strengthening statutory sick pay, enhancing the minimum wage to become a living wage and simplifying employment status – all stand to make far-reaching changes to the employment landscape.
While Labour’s Employment Rights Bill and ‘the Plan’ may feel like just more pieces of legislation to navigate, they are also a real opportunity to strengthen your business through improved communication, employee engagement and collaboration with your employees and their representatives, and dependent on your industry and situation, that may include a Trade Union too.
Communication: the foundation of successful employer and employee relationships
In any organisation, transparent communication is the bedrock of success. It’s what turns a collection of employees into a cohesive team. With the employment changes that are expected by adopting the revised Employment Rights Bill and ‘The Plan to Make Work Pay’, clear, open and effective communication has never been more crucial. The Bill introduces several new rights and protections for workers, and it’s your responsibility to ensure that your teams understand these changes.
But beyond simply relaying information, good communication is about listening too. Two-way communication fosters trust and innovation so create open channels of communication where your employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, concerns and ideas. This two-way communication is also essential for navigating the complexities of the new legislation together.
Employee engagement: your secret weapon
Engaged employees are the lifeblood of any thriving business. They are more productive, more innovative, and more committed to your company’s success. The new Bill and ‘the Plan’ place a strong emphasis on worker’s rights and well-being, which align perfectly with the goal of maintaining and boosting employee engagement.
You already know that when your teams feel valued and respected, they’re more likely to go the extra mile. This isn’t just about offering perks or benefits: it’s about creating an environment where employees feel genuinely connected to your company’s mission and values. Regular check-ins, opportunities for professional development, providing them with caring support empathetically, and recognising achievements – are all powerful ways to enhance engagement.
Representation and working with Trades Unions and other representatives
Trades Union membership and membership of other representative forums have historically been viewed with apprehension by some business leaders, particularly in smaller companies. However, the new Bill and ‘the Plan’ highlight the importance of introducing fair representation going as far as promoting working with Trades Unions to ensure that employees’ voices are heard.
Instead of seeing Trades Unions as an adversary or incumbrance, consider them as a partner in fostering a fair and equitable workplace. Working closely with employee representatives, whether from a Trades Union or another internally managed forum, enables you to reach everyone in your organisation. It can also help you anticipate and address potential issues before they escalate, ensuring that your business remains compliant, and our workforce remains satisfied. Open dialogue with employee representatives can lead to a more harmonious workplace, where all parties work together towards common goals.
The bigger picture: why it all matters
At the heart of these changes being introduced by the Government, is the recognition that a happy, engaged, and well-represented workforce is not just good for employees – it’s good for business too. SMEs that prioritise communication, engagement, and collaboration with representatives where they exist in the organisation, are better positioned to attract and retain top talent, innovate more and grow more sustainably.
The new legislation when it comes in, will seem like a big challenge but it will also present you with an opportunity. By embracing collaborative principles you’re not simply complying with the law; you’re building a stronger and more resilient business. In a world where competition is fierce, and the pace of change is relentless, having a dedicated and motivated team working with you is one of your most valuable assets.
Moving forward
As you navigate the new landscape shaped by our Labour Government’s Employment Rights Bill, and ‘The Plan to Make Work Pay’ remember that your approach to communication, employee engagement, collaboration with employees and their representatives will define your success. By fostering a workplace where everyone feels heard, valued and supported, you’re not just meeting your legal obligations – you’re setting the stage for long-term growth and prosperity.
In the end, good communication, strong employee engagement and relations aren’t simply nice to haves; they’re essential components of a thriving, modern business today and meet the expectations of a multi-generational workforce of today. Embrace these changes and ways of working, and you’ll not only comply with new legislation, but you’ll also lead your SME into a brighter, happier and more sustainable future.
Take our Employment Rights Readiness Check to assess how ready your business is for the new legislation and to identify key areas on which to focus. It take just two minutes to complete and will give you a comprehensive report, providing personalised feedback that will help you take action today and prepare effectively for what’s coming. We hope you find this a useful way to get started, and are here to answer any questions you might have.