Managers, supervisors, bosses…this one’s for you!
Whether you have two employees or oversee hundreds, we all know there are perks AND pitfalls to being a people manager. Every day you are asked to balance employee development, operations, and competing priorities. Whatever your management style, here are a few additions to your playbook from someone who’s been in your shoes.
Keep Appointments With Your Team
This sounds obvious but forgetting appointments—or even arriving late—tells your employees a lot about how you value them and their time.
It’s very easy to get pulled in a million different directions as a manager. But one of the easiest ways to erode trust and dependability is to always miss or reschedule meetings with your direct reports. Show them they are important to you by keeping that time protected. Attend meetings focused, not distracted by a pinging phone or tablet, and ready to listen.
(Actually) Take Time Off
In 2022, more than 55% of paid time off went unused, according to industry reports, up from 28% in 2019. We all know that rest and relaxation are important for long-term achievements and growth. Show your team it is ok to take time away from the office and actually unplug…really….seriously…..take a break without checking in. Your team will take cues based on your behavior. Leading by example when it comes to PTO is a great way to help prevent both you and your team from burnout. Your team will survive, I promise!
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Anyone who has EVER shopped knows: ‘one size fits all’ is a myth. Each of your employees is unique and different with their own ways of accomplishing tasks, interests within the organization, and goals for the future. Get to know your employee on a 1:1 basis and work to help them achieve the things that matter most to them.
Ask your team members how they like to be appreciated in the workplace, what their strengths are, and how you can best support them in their career development. And if these questions feel overwhelming, please reach out. I have assessments and tools to help!
Share Your Vision and Goals
Transparency is vital to all relationships. So often managers keep their vision for the team and goals to themselves. There is a fear of failing if the team doesn’t meet the expectations or concerns that the team won’t be onboard with the goals. That’s ok! Team members want to know what matters and what doesn’t and a shared load is lighter for everyone.
Fill Your Own Bucket Too
Of course, supporting your employees and the company as a whole is important. But don’t forget to make time for yourself. Take a class, read a book, or join a professional network. And then tell your team about what you have learned. This is a great way for you connect with your team, share education and expertise, and keep yourself engaged in your role.
Supervising others can be tricky. There are duties, emotions, requirements, and personalities involved that make it feel like herding cats. When a manager or supervisor works hard, their employees echo that determination. But when a boss struggles, the whole system feels less secure, and productivity slows to a trickle.
Take care of yourself so you can care for others but also give them the respect, guidance, and leadership they need to take flight.
Their success is your success and that’s good for the entire company!
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