Greetings!
Two previous emails focused on approaches to Building Organization Capacity. This newsletter focuses on the importance of accountability of employees in order to sustain the level of performance necessary.
In order to achieve high levels of performance here are some of the basics that need to be in place to have a team that can make a difference to organization effectiveness: Employees that are part of decision making naturally own the decisions and take on responsibility for results related to the role they play. Providing employees with knowledge, tools, parameters and expectations then allows them to move forward independently. Allowing this independence further encourages employees to perform at their highest potential as they feel valued and trusted.
Employees need to have information that is relevant to measure performance related to individual as well as organization success. A deep understanding of challenges that an organization faces and obtaining feedback from employees as to how to improve and remove some challenges is key. It is when we allow for input and shared decision making that we optimize creativity, innovation and find practical methods of improvement.
A clear mission, vision and values are important in order to obtain the "personality" of the organization that will lead to the success desired.
Realize that as administrators, business owners or leaders of any kind, you need to assess your approach to running the organization. Top down is not optimal for many reasons. Utilize your employees who are the individuals actually handling the day to day work. Respect their value and intelligence. Be open, listen effectively and understand that trust, loyalty, optimal performance and accountability result from a strong relationship with employees.
Finally, it is imperative that you have a performance management approach that allows you to provide objective feedback for continued positive performance, or guidance for performance improvement. It is through this method that employees will be fully accountable for their performance and develop in the manner that will best suit their growth ultimately resulting in positive performance for optimal organization performance. Employees want feedback, it is a leader's basic responsibility to ensure regular, objective, formal feedback is in place and useful.
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