The 360 Degree Leader

Empower your team

Instructions

Schedule regular walkabouts in your workplace.
Set aside time each week to walk around your work area, making a point to engage with team members in their environments. This will show your team that you have a genuine interest in their work and well-being. Ask questions about their projects, share insights, and offer support where needed. Reflect on how accessible you appear to your team: Are you approachable? Do team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and concerns with you?
Recognize your team's potential.
Regularly acknowledge the strengths and potential you see in each team member. This could be during one-on-one meetings, performance reviews, or casual conversations. Let them know you see them for what they can become, not just what they are now. Encourage them to set ambitious goals. For example, if a team member shows potential in leadership, suggest they lead a small project to develop those skills further.
Invest in personalized development plans.
Work with each team member to create a development plan that aligns with their career aspirations and the organization's goals. This might involve identifying specific skills they need to develop, assigning them to projects that challenge them in those areas, or providing access to training and education. Ask them, "What is one skill you would like to develop this year, and how can I support you in achieving this?"
Assign tasks based on individual strengths.
Take the time to understand each team member's strengths and assign tasks accordingly. This not only enhances productivity but also boosts morale. For instance, if someone excels in analytical thinking, assign them to data-driven projects. Regularly review these assignments to ensure they remain aligned with each person's strengths and provide the necessary training to fill any gaps.
Lead by example.
Consistently demonstrate the values and work ethic you wish to instill in your team. Reflect on your actions and decisions: Do they align with your stated values? Are you setting the right example in terms of work-life balance, communication, and respect for others? Your behavior should inspire your team to emulate these qualities.
Tailor recognition and rewards. Recognize and reward achievements in ways that are meaningful to each team member. While one may appreciate public recognition, another might value a private thank you note or a professional development opportunity. Be creative and personal with rewards, considering what each team member values most. This will boost their motivation.