This has probably happened to you: A supervisor makes you perform a useless task simply because someone else thinks it’s a good idea.

Excellent managers depend on more than their training to motivate their employees — they also rely on common sense. When you make decisions that make sense, your employees are more likely to respect your choices and perform to their best ability.

Problem: Often, what makes sense in one situation doesn’t make sense at work. For example, at home you might poll your family about what they want to eat for dinner, but too much input at work can create chaos.

Solution: These simple common-sense management strategies will keep your team happy and show them that you are an excellent leader:

• Clarify your directions. You can’t assume that your employees understand what you want them to do. You should be explicit when you give directions and be sure to ask your staffers if they have questions. Best: Once your employees perform the task, ask them for feedback. Were your directions thorough? What would help next time?
• Reward a job well done. Everyone wants to feel important and appreciated. When you point out that someone went above and beyond the call of duty, you show them how much their contribution means to your team. Do it like this: Recognize workers at staff meetings or luncheons where their peers are present. You could also offer a bonus for the employee who consistently excels.
• Treat everyone the same. Everyone can recall a co-worker who acted differently once she was promoted, or who is friendly to people’s faces but talks poorly of them behind their backs. Those leaders don’t inspire anyone to work harder or smarter. Action plan: Only speak to and about employees in ways that are respectful, which may mean taking your frustrations to a co-worker rather than to your team. Keep in mind that your employees model their actions on yours — so you must be on your best behavior at all times.

Filed under: Management Minute