The labor market is undergoing major transformations. It's no secret and, as managers, it’s a challenge. We question and challenge ourselves: Are we doing the right thing? Are we doing it well? Are our team members happy at work?
I don’t claim to have all of the answers to these questions, but I can definitely offer a few tips.
Perfection doesn’t exist
The image of the perfect leader is completely outdated! That approach is disheartening for the rest of the team. Taking up too much space in daily operational life stifles the initiative of less experienced people on the team.
It’s impossible to know everything and to always be right. Give yourself the right to be wrong, and don’t hesitate to admit it. Bet on your human side. Be attentive and responsive, be flexible and forgiving. Encourage your people to be in "solution" mode and, above all, just be yourself!
The cornerstone? It's your team!
The administrative structure of your organization positions you above your team. On the other hand, if we analyze things from a "field" perspective, I think we need to position operational roles at the same level as management roles. In other words, management roles are important within a team, but no more important than other roles.
This implies a relationship of equals with other members of the team, while enabling you to guide them and to accept their ideas and points of view. Focus on how you can contribute to the collective success of the team.
Adaptation: A precious ally
Over the years, I have concluded that there is no universal recipe when it comes to team management. Every situation deserves its own unique solution. For one thing, no two employees are alike. What is ideal for some may be a source of irritation for others. It’s important to adopt an approach that favors the achievement of the goals, and one that is adapted to your management style. A reverse approach would be the equivalent of running a marathon in the wrong shoes.
It is therefore necessary to establish operating methods that respect the preferences of the team, and that also fit with your management style. The keyword: adaptation!
Nourish sources of motivation
I can’t remember an employee who wasn’t motivated on Day 1 of his or her job. The challenge is to maintain and grow that initial spark moving forward. Easier said than done, I agree.
To keep people motivated, it’s important to offer them the chance to grow and to evolve at a pace that suits them. Another fundamental element of keeping team members enthusiastic is to give meaning to their work, and to underscore the value that they bring to the organization.
The key to it all: Communication
Communication is at the heart of our work, yet it is not uncommon to see what seems like a lack of communication: misinterpreted messages, lack of context, poor communicators, “diagonally” read communications, etc. Here are some tips for improving upon communication:
- Communicate more, rather than less
- Be clear in your instructions
- Promote regular interactions
- Respond to questions quickly
Remember, employees are the most valuable resource of almost all organizations. Therefore, investments in the field will allow you to obtain unparalleled results. By incorporating leadership best practices, there will be no barriers to the goals you can achieve as a team.