Get Off to a Great Start With Your Team in 2015
January 20, 2015
What do your employees think about you? If you’re not sure, or if you suspect their impression isn’t a good one, then the New Year is an ideal time to take a step back, evaluate your performance and make improvements that will deliver great results. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
Set clear expectations.
As one of the leading staffing agencies in Houston, TX, Murray Resources knows that more often than not, frustration and underperformance ensue when there are murky expectations. When employees don’t know what you want them to do – in terms of tasks, timelines, deliverables and goals – they’re going to flounder. They can’t read your mind. It’s therefore imperative that you work with each of your team members to set expectations and how you plan to measure their performance.
Don’t pay lip service.
If you tell an employee you’re going to do something, do it. If there’s a reason you couldn’t deliver, explain why. But when you consistently keep your word, even if the results or feedback aren’t what an employee hoped for, you’re going to create a high level of trust among your team members.
Ask for feedback.
Ask your staff to let you know when they have questions, concerns, or challenges they’re facing. When they do offer input, don’t get defensive. Remember, you’re all on the same team. And the information they offer can be invaluable in improving company performance. So strive to create an environment that promotes communication – one in which employees aren’t scared to come to you with ideas or issues.
Offer feedback.
Let your employees know where they stand. Give input – both positive and constructive – on a regular basis. Make sure employees know about areas that need improvement before they get too far off track. Don’t wait until year end performance reviews to assess the past year.
Make sure employees have access to the resources they need.
This goes hand-in-hand with offering feedback. If an employee isn’t meeting expectations, don’t simply tell them that. Make sure they have the resources they need to improve, whether it’s enrolling in a training seminar, shadowing a veteran staff member, or investing in newer equipment.
Concentrate on results.
Rules are in place for a reason. But if they’re hindering positive results and productivity, then they deserve a second look. Don’t be so committed to following the rules just for the sake of it. Look for faster, better, more agile ways to get things done.
Treat your people with respect.
Don’t yell, berate, insult, or embarrass your employees when you’re upset. There are far more productive ways to get the results you’re after. Instead, treat people with dignity and respect at all times.
If your people aren’t happy, they will eventually leave in search of a better opportunity. So follow the tips above to improve your management skills and create a healthier work environment in 2015 and beyond.
Has your company recently experienced turnover? If it has, and you need help with the hiring process, call Murray Resources. As one of the leading staffing agencies in Houston, TX, organizations all over the city rely on our expertise to source and retain top talent for hard-to-fill, key positions across a broad range of business disciplines. Contact us today to find out more.