- Compliment them
Offer regular statements of praise for a job well done. Don’t forget your
top performers. We sometimes overlook them because we feel they already know
how good they are. And, you’ll be surprised what can happen with sub-standard
performers after hearing words of encouragement.
- Have regular
one-to-one meetings with EVERYONE that reports to you
When surveyed, employees say more individual time with their boss is
invaluable. Once scheduled, avoid canceling as the message you
send can be interpreted that you don’t feel they are important. Have
too many direct reports to do this? Reevaluate how your team is structured to
reduce your number of direct reports. This can open opportunities for Team
Leads, Supervisors, Assistant Managers, etc.
- Give honest, fair and
consistent feedback
Let them know where they stand. Tell them when something isn’t going well.
Give them an opportunity to improve by hearing your open feedback.
- Ask what they need
from you to do a better job
Find out how you can improve their work environment to make it an enjoyable
place to come to every day. Identifying small things you can change quickly
will go a long way toward loyalty.
- Make them feel
important
Bottom line, show you care about them as a person. Respect and
understand their individuality. There is so much talk today about teamwork
…which is important. However, teams are made up of individuals. And,
individuals are most productive when they feel they matter.
Five simple practices of great leaders. How many are you doing?
