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Is your company working with fewer resources on big issues and projects?
Are you asking your employees to take on more?
Has the work environment changed, perhaps significantly?
In September I wrote about the impact situations like this may have on your own self-confidence. This month I'm turning toward your employees. If your self-confidence has taken a hit, it's likely theirs has as well. As a leader you are motivated to help. Here are a few suggestions on how to do so.
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| Don't Assume |
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Keep the lines of communication open with all employees, even those exhibiting no signs of stress or lack of confidence. According to The Carrot Principle by Adam Gostick and Hester Elton, your very best performers are often the most insecure people in the organization. Talk with employees about their work environment. Specifically address:
>>What's important to the company at this time? What are the business objectives?
>>How does he/she make a difference? How do his/her efforts align with the business objectives?
>>What's in it for him/her when he/she does make a difference?
Don't assume you know which employees will benefit the most from this conversation. Have it with all of them. Have it often.
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| Be Conscious about Recognition |
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In this economy, it is more important than ever to notice and recognize when employees meet goals or achieve steps toward meeting goals. You might also recognize how employees achieve goals (e.g. team player, innovative, timely, open to input, positive attitude, etc.). Recognition does not have to be expensive or take a lot of time - sometimes a simple thank you goes a long way. It's important to be specific about the behavior or result being recognized and to link it back to the company's goals. It's also important to give recognition evenly and consistently. Strong leaders will find something to recognize every week in each employee based on their daily job performance.
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| Set Clear Expectations |
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Ensure employees understand what is expected of them. Link these expectations to benefits for the company as well as the employee. A best practice is to write them down and review them regularly with employees in order to measure progress and course correct when necessary. Confidence in the workplace involves trusting and believing in the leaders. In turn, make sure you understand what the organization and your manager expects of YOU.
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| Encourage Idea Sharing |
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Encourage employees to share their ideas and create forums where these ideas can be easily exchanged. Be fully in the moment during these sessions giving your employees and their ideas your full attention. Listen closely and take opportunities to build rapport across the team, group or company. Having a voice and having it heard is important in boosting confidence.
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