For employees, the CEO can seem like an elusive figure – too busy and too important to engage with on a day-to-day basis. However, leaders who take the time to build relationships with their team members can create a more connected and engaged workforce.

Being approachable is key, but it's not always easy to know where to start. To help, a group of entrepreneurs shared their tried-and-true strategies for creating an approachable, open work environment and building better relationships with their teams.

1. Break the ice

Employees may not be naturally inclined to initiate a conversation with the CEO. That's why Stephanie Wells, co-founder and CTO at Formidable Forms, recommends leaders make the first move.

"Being a CEO isn't easy, as there are a lot of responsibilities on your shoulders – but team coordination is equally important," notes Wells. "You won't be able to achieve your goal if your team thinks that you're unapproachable."

She suggests leaders hang out with their team members from time to time, whether it's inviting them over for a coffee or having dinner.

"It doesn't matter how you do it," Wells adds. "Just be the one to break the ice."

2. Implement an open-door policy

Josh Kohlbach, founder and CEO of Wholesale Suite, recommends CEOs create an open-door policy within their organization.

"This lets your employees walk in at any time with their ideas, thoughts and concerns without being afraid of being judged or reprimanded," Kohlbach explains. "This will also make them feel that the management is approachable and willing to listen to them."

3. Seek out feedback

One reason why employees may hesitate to approach their CEO is the perception that the CEO is unavailable or simply too busy. To combat this, eMerchantBrokerco-founder Blair Thomas suggests CEOs remove the "being sought-after" aspect by proactively seeking out feedback from team members.

"Create the opportunity for them to share problems and ideas by asking them if there's anything they'd like to discuss," Thomas suggests. "Just taking the time to ask someone about their day can have a massive impact on their perception of you."

4. Show appreciation

Another great way to build trust and connection with your team is to show your appreciation. Solomon Thimothy, president of OneIMS, emphasizes that small actions can make a significant impact in building relationships with your team.

"Giving someone a high five for a job well done or sharing kudos in the team's Slack channel can make all the difference," says Thimothy.

"Make sure each person in your organization feels appreciated and has excellent opportunities to grow and make a difference."

5. Engage in company conversations

According to MemberPress CEO Blair Williams, leaders can demonstrate their approachability by taking an active part in company conversations.

"This could mean sharing pictures in family channels, answering questions that pop up casually and so on," Williams explains.

Joining conversations – or even starting them – shows you're open to questions and ideas, which leads to improved communication and overall team relationships.

6. Create open forums

CEOs looking to become more approachable should strive to create a positive work culture where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, opinions and concerns.

"This can be done by creating open forums where employees can submit their queries anonymously," advises Thomas Griffin, co-founder and president of OptinMonster. "You can also have a suggestion box for them to share ideas, which fosters trust and understanding."

7. Be physically present

Sometimes, just being physically present can make a significant difference in how your team perceives you.

"If you are bringing Mr. Burns from 'The Simpsons' energy to business and are always behind glass or doors, you are likely not developing deeper relationships across your company," says Alphametic CEO Matthew Capala.

"By being in front of and physically present for your teams, you become more approachable."

Capala recommends CEOs spend time "around the water cooler" and work in common areas to increase presence (and popularity) among their teams.

8. Aim to lead, serve and motivate

A CEO's mindset and approach are just as important as their actions.

Joel Mathew, founder and CEO of Fortress Consulting, advises leaders to remember that they aren't just in charge of the business; they're also in charge of leading, serving and continually motivating their teams.

"While it's true that employees work for you, it's just as important to remember that they work with you," Mathew explains. "Once you establish that culture, you become much more approachable – and it strengthens the relationship in and out of work."

 

Inc