Supporting Employees for Success

Cathie Leimbach • October 27, 2023

Communicating your expectations to employees and ensuring they understand what you want them to achieve are not enough for them to succeed in your organization. Managers and supervisors in highly effective organizations often spend half of their work week supporting their employees.


  1. Be Consistent: Consistency in your messaging and expectations is crucial. Ensure that your team always receives the same message from you and understands what is expected of them.
  2. Encourage Feedback: Create an open and transparent communication environment where team members can ask questions, seek clarification, and provide input. This fosters a sense of ownership and engagement.
  3. Monitor Progress: Regularly review and assess progress toward the desired results. Adjust your approach as needed and celebrate milestones to maintain motivation.
  4. Provide Support: Offer the necessary resources, training, and support to help your team achieve the results. Address any obstacles or challenges that may arise.
  5. Lead by Example: Demonstrate the behavior and work ethic you expect from your team. Your actions should align with your words and goals.
  6. Acknowledge and Reward: Recognize and reward team members for their efforts and achievements. Positive reinforcement can boost morale and motivation.
  7. Be Patient and Persistent: Understand that achieving significant results may take time. Stay committed to the vision, and don't be discouraged by setbacks.
  8. Adapt and Learn: Be open to feedback and be willing to adapt your goals and strategies if necessary. Learning from mistakes and evolving is a sign of effective leadership.

 

Supporting one’s direct reports for success means serving their needs as they endeavor to meet workplace expectations. This includes reinforcing expectations, being available for two-way conversations, giving employees feedback about what they are doing well and support to be more effective in weak areas, and genuinely caring about your team members as valuable human beings.



What is one aspect of supporting your employees that you are doing well? What is one aspect that is a growth area for you to enhance employee and organizational success? 

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