Friday, April 28, 2017

CEO SPECIAL.... From the CEO's desk

From the CEO's desk

When it comes to business, these corporate bosses know that it's not enough to just engage your customers and investors. You also need to communicate with another set of people -your employees. From Kunal Bahl to Tim Cook, here's what their letters to employees can teach you

Tim Cook, Apple CEO Letter lesson: Take a stand
When US President Donald Trump announced the immigration ban, it riled many people -including Cook, whose employees would be directly affected by the restriction. But instead of side-stepping the topic, the Apple CEO took a stand in his letter. By addressing the issue and clearly stating which side of the fence he was on, Cook showed that he was not afraid of having tough conversations. During uncertain times, it helps when you reach out and reassure your team. And even though they may not always agree with your viewpoint, they will respect you for connecting and value your opinion.
Kunal Bahl, Snapdeal CEO Letter Lesson: Two-way communication
At a time where employees may be questioning their role in the company, Bahl takes the time out to talk about the future of the organisation, highlighting their priorities, touching upon rumours and best of all, ending on a positive note.Another aspect of his letter to his employees that stands out is Bahl's own call for two-way communication.He urges his employees to reach out to him about their concerns and even suggestions, which shows that not only does he have an open door, but that everyone is welcome, no matter the level. And by keeping the tone of his letter causal, it's more likely his employees will take him up on his offer.

Travis Kalanick, Uber CEO Letter Lesson: Own up to your mistakes
Take a leaf out of Kalanick's book the next time you mess up -admit it. Kalanick knew he was out of line when he had a heated exchange with one of his drivers, but instead of making up an excuse or beating around the bush, he addressed his own flaws and apologised. Showing your employees that you need to be responsible for your behaviour, no matter where you are on the corporate ladder, will make them more conscientious workers. It reinforces that no one is above common courtesy.

Mukesh Bansal, Myntra founder Letter Lesson: Not all business
In these days of quick interactions and fast deals, most of us often forget the human side to business. But in Bansal's exit note to his colleagues at Myntra, he shows that it's not always just about the numbers but the other connections you make along the way.
His letter lets people in on what he does in his downtime, highlight ing his role as a dad and travel junkie.
By using “we“to address his fellow workers, he imparts a sense of camarade rie. This can increase feelings of loyalty towards a company.
He wants his colleagues to know that they are not just a cog in the machine, but part of the family.

glynda alves

ET20APR17

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