Human Skills in a Technical World: How to Rethink Your Time on the Shop Floor
The manufacturing industry is full of complex processes and an emphasis on using AI and other emerging technologies to speed up productivity and improve results. But even though we live in an increasingly technical world, we still need human skills—and improving your human skills can be the key to unlocking true transformation in your manufacturing organization.
Improving Human Skills in a Technical Role
As a leader in the technology-focused manufacturing industry, you can improve your human skills.
#1: Practice Inclusive Language
To form better connections, you need to create a more welcoming organization. This starts with small change, like using inclusive language. For example, steer away from gendered terms or greetings, like addressing a room as “hello, guys!” By using more inclusive language, you make everyone feel secure and welcomed, especially your female employees.
#2: Have a Presence
To connect, you need to show up! Be present on the shop floor, have curious conversations, and let your team know you’re willing and ready to interact with them. One easy way to strengthen your presence is to shift your work gear to include safety boots or other PPE you need on the shop floor. This way, you can easily join them on the floor and break down barriers between yourself and your team.
#3: Address Systemic Barriers
Finally, be aware of systemic barriers that might affect members of your team. For example, your female team members might experience more bias and challenges than your male team members. Have open-ended, curious, and compassionate conversations with your team members about the challenges and barriers they’re facing. Learn about their experiences and struggles, and find ways to break down systemic barriers within your organization.
Learn More on Mindfulness Manufacturing
Want to learn more about fostering human skills in a technical world? Tune in to this recent episode of the Mindfulness Manufacturing podcast with guest Emily Nichols! As a professional engineer with decades of experiences in manufacturing and innovation, Emily has worked with organizations like PepsiCo, Janssen, and Henkel. She now works with organizations who want to strengthen the human skills they need to thrive in an increasingly technical world. In this episode, she shares more about the important role of human skills, and offers lessons and insights for forming stronger connections, breaking down systemic barriers, and more!
Listen to Emily’s episode of Mindfulness Manufacturing here.