So much of a company’s success depends on the performance of its managers. When employees are being led by a highly competent manager, they are more likely to demonstrate better performance than those who work under poor management. When we hear about these inspirational leaders we tend to imagine someone who has a unique and brilliant business mind and has used this talent to achieve considerable success. We might also think about someone who gives unprecedented speeches and has the ability to seal the deal with any presentation. While these are certainly great qualities, the truth is most great managers are not defined by such traits. Most employees would agree that great managers are defined by the little things they do every day to build a personal one-on-one connection with their team. Here are five things great managers do on a daily basis to build employee engagement.
Keep it Real
If you want to build trust and respect among your team, you must be straightforward. A great manager is not afraid to speak up, they do not try to sugarcoat bad news, and they do not avoid issues that need to be addressed. Rather, they respect their employees enough to be honest with them, even if it’s not the easiest thing to hear on a Monday morning. Great managers inspire their team through direct, open, and honest communication.
They Meet with Employees One-on-One
Employees who meet regularly with their manager are much more likely to be highly engaged at work. Great managers understand that one-on-one meetings are vital to the success and performance of their team. When managers neglect to spend this time with their direct reports, employees are likely to feel disengaged and are less likely to see themselves as an important contributor to the company. A good manager should set aside time each week to meet individually with team members in order to give feedback and address any issues.
Actively Manage Conflict
No one likes the idea of confrontation but good managers know that there comes a time when tough decisions have to be made. Successful managers do not avoid issues in the workplace, but they face them head on. A manager who knows how to successfully handle conflict will be seen as a role model and a leader by their team. It will show your employees that you have certain expectations and they will be held accountable if they do not perform as expected.
They Give Credit
Employees want to feel like their hard work is recognized and they want to feel like they matter. A great manager looks for ways to recognize this hard work and show their appreciation. Aside from bonuses and promotions, there are several little things managers can do to show appreciation. They can send positive emails, verbally praise their employees, organize a small party with dessert, or acknowledge employees in the next meeting. These are simple gestures that will go a long way in motivating employees.
They Lead By Example
When you hold a leadership position, it is time to act like it. That means no more complaining about company policy or management decisions. You are now a representative of the company and you need to be a good example of how you want your employees to act. The same is true for work performance. When employees see a manager who puts in extra hours and is actively engaged in various tasks at work, they are much more likely to follow in their footsteps. Good managers must align their behavior with the direction of the corporation and try to reflect this behavior onto their employees.
If you want to be a great manager who inspires others, you don’t have to be an extraordinary strategist or don an impressive list of achievements. You simply have to communicate openly and honestly with your team and instill trust and accountability. By focusing on these areas on a daily basis, you will increase employee engagement and earn the respect of your colleagues.