One of the elements often missing in the workplace is accountability. You find teams and departments working daily and performing their individual tasks without any sense of accountability for their actions and behaviors. So many issues, including the lack of accountability are often a result of communication problems in the workplace.

To eliminate communication problems in the workplace, you need to begin creating a culture of accountability among your employees. Here are a few quick tips.

Be accountable to your team and customers

Leading by example is the best method of leadership. You need to model the kind of behavior you expect from your team, otherwise you can’t expect them to follow. Show them that even as the manager or leader, you acknowledge that you are accountable to the team and to the people you serve- the customers.

Deal with the lack of accountability

When you see people working as if they are not accountable to anyone, you need to deal with it immediately. Do not let the lack of accountability become a norm in the workplace, because people will get used to it. Sure, some things can sidetrack people from their responsibilities, but you need to get to the issue before it gets out of hand. Eliminate communication problems in the workplace by making sure issues are dealt with appropriately.

Be fair

One of the biggest keys to building a culture of accountability in a team is by treating everyone fairly. Leaders must learn to set one standard by which everyone is expected to adhere. Never give special treatment to your top performers and show your under-performers a different way of treatment. The rule of accountability applies to everyone, regardless of performance or position. How can you expect your team to be accountable to each one if you show favoritism to others?

Give rewards

Employees who perform well thrive on the feeling of success, so reward them by giving them bigger responsibility and accountability. This gives them the chance to succeed in bigger challenges and get that feeling of satisfaction. People who outperform the rest and model accountability like the feeling of being challenged with bigger tasks and responsibilities. Remember that lack of accountability is one of the worst communication problems in the workplace.

Sadly, not every organization realizes the value and importance of their employees being accountable and taking responsibility for their actions. But if you look closely; you will see that teams and businesses that are still successful today have accountability at the core of their every business practice. As a leader, you have the responsibility of minimizing communication problems in the workplace and promoting accountability.

© 2013 Incedo Group, LLC