LeadershipHQ Magazine February 2015 1st Edition

10 WAYS TO ENGAGE YOUR TEAM “My model for business is The Beatles. They were four guys who kept each other’s kind of negative tendencies in check. They balanced each other and the total was greater than the sum of the parts. That’s how I see business: great things in business are never done by one person, they’re done by a team of people.” – Steve Jobs Ask almost any manager “What is the most difficult thing about your job?” Many of them will answer employee engagement, motivation, team chemistry or something to the effect. This quote by the late Steve Jobs perfectly articulates how balancing teamwork and production can be a delicate process. So, what are some ways to engage your team? Let’s discuss 10 things that you can do or say that will create some spark in your business. ASK. No quicker way to find out what works for each individual than to simply ask. Those with an introverted (thoughtful, solitary) side will probably not like the loud, “rah-rah” environment. People with an extraverted (energetic, outgoing) side will likely not respond to an email of congratulations. It’s about finding balance. EMBRACE CHANGE. Accept and encourage ideas as part of your team culture. Nobody likes archaic, static environments, so seek to build a culture of innovation and creativity. GIVE FEEDBACK. Feedback is necessary, even it is less than ideal. Performance will 15 | © LeadershipHQ 2015 always be the primary driver in business, so be willing to take someone (including you) outside of their comfort zone. Honest and frank feedback is key to employee, team and company growth. research company, states that focusing on your employees strengths is likely to increase engagement. Focus on what each individual brings to the team and develop them accordingly. RESIST THE “GOLDEN RULE” Treat people the way that they (not you) want to be treated. Remember (this is key) that each individual’s personality, communication style, and other work preferences are likely to be different. Understand your each person on your team and engage them according to these preferences. FOCUS ON NEW TEAM MEMBERS Research indicates that employees are most engaged during their first six months. Use this knowledge to implement and execute a plan or initiative that will build on their morale. GIVE CREDIT People should be given credit for a job well done. Even a simple “Thank you” or “I appreciate your effort” will go a long way in making your employees feel positive and motivated. INCORPORATE NEW TRAINING Use tools and learning programs to further your team’s knowledge and track progress. Budgetary constraints are likely to prevent a large and elaborate program, so use some creativity to do this. SHOW INTEREST This means showing employees that you care about them personally, specifically about their life, goals, and any challenges that they are facing. KEEP EMPLOYEES INFORMED There is perhaps nothing more frustrating than a new initiative, policy or program that employees are informed about at the last minute. As soon as feasible, let your team in on any developing trends that may impact them. DEVELOP STRENGTHS Gallup, the data-based news and How would it feel to lead an engaged team?

LeadershipHQ Magazine February 2015 1st Edition | Page 16