Recent surveys show that every 3 in 4 employees say their manager is ineffective.
We’ve all encountered our fair share of managerial horror stories, and it’s no secret that the dissatisfaction with our people leaders takes a toll on employee engagement, sense of belonging, productivity, and retention.
So, how can we show up for our people in the modern-day workplace?
Research suggests that if a leader ranks well in just one of the following areas, they are twice as likely to be effective.
- Book regular 1:1 meetings
Create a weekly safe space for your team members, dedicating time to address each individual’s challenges. Provide support, offer encouragement, and explore their strengths.
A critical aspect of your one-on-one meetings is the human connection – connecting with your team members as people, not merely producers.
By listening to and acknowledging any stressors and goals, employees develop a deeper connection to their team and their work, fostering a loyal team.
- Celebrate wins genuinely
Providing recognition and feedback (when constructive) can help fuel motivation and keep things moving on an upward trajectory. Though it may seem trivial when prioritising a busy schedule, your people need you to acknowledge the hard work they put in.
- Be a supportive coach
When a team member is presented with a challenge, help them identify and navigate the most effective steps independently by asking thoughtful questions. With empathy and support, you can lead your team to manage their own path forward, increasing confidence when it comes to future decision-making, and ultimately greater mental well-being.
- Use strengths to everyone’s advantage
Consider if your team members are working within their pocket of greatness and keep their passion ignited by embracing a growth mentality. Listen to each person’s development goals and consider upskilling opportunities that align with them. When everyone is working within their strengths, there is greater engagement, productivity, and commitment to the company.
And to offer one super-coach tip – close your PC for the first half hour and just walk around to chat with your team. Humanising our team members by asking about their external life and showing you care about who they are outside the workplace is proving to be a major catalyst for changing team dynamics. It is proving to be one of the easiest behaviours which can turn a lackluster workplace into a thriving workspace culture.
Embrace your leadership. Remember the impact you have every day and ensure it’s a positive, inspiring one.