• Include Team in Direction of Your Company

This includes a part in the strategic planning phase, writing goals and objectives and the implementation of the goals with a specific timeline. Let your team help determine the timelines and rewards for completion of the task.

• Be Clear in Your Communication

Be sure the team understands what you are asking for. Ask them to recap the conversation, listening for gaps in what you said and what was repeated back.

• Use Their Ideas

How much time do you spend listening to your teams’ ideas and suggestions? Ask for their input in how they would go about completing a project. Let them do it their way if the result will be satisfactory to you.

• Demonstrate Your Trust

Determine what resources they need before they start the project and clear the way for the resources to be available. Resist checking in on every detail, but have controls in place so they know they should check with you.

• Match Their Interests With Your Needs

Meet with your team and learn what they want and need. When possible, assign tasks that will allow them to grow and take on additional responsibilities.

• Give Realistic Timelines

Determine together a realistic timeline. Be specific as to when a project is due, don’t say, “Return this to me as soon as possible.” If you need it by the end of the week, say so clearly.

• Establish Priorities

It is helpful for the team to know which pieces are the most important to you. Make certain that they know what needs to be done first and why.

• Coach, Don’t Manage

Coach your team to success. This means listen, ask questions, offer strategic advice, and always give direct feedback.

About the Author: The mission of Management Training Systems, Inc. is to partner with you to develop and implement strategies for moving your organization to greater levels of success @ 623-587-7644