Leadership Tip of the Month

Focusing on the Positive in Employees
One of the most common complaints I hear from employees about managers is, “They always criticize what you don't do right and rarely appreciate what you do right.” Similarly many front-line managers tell me, “It’s so hard for me to appreciate positive things about my employees when I deal with negative situations all day and have too much other work to do. Besides, I still remember how they messed up last week.” If you also have the same challenge, the following can help you.

First, realize the benefits of focusing on the good in people:

1.  It encourages people and gives them hope.

2.  It makes their day--and that makes your day.

3.  It reinforces behavior you want repeated.

4.  It develops untapped potential in employees.

5.  It prevents you from coming across as a negative person.

6.  It draws people to you vs. from you.

Next, use reminders to find someone doing something good. Every day managers use coins in their pocket or post-it notes as reminders. Now, take two minutes to think of one or two people you could express appreciation to today. Then begin expressing your appreciation on a regular basis and notice the difference it makes!

"Unappreciated employees are our most perishable resource."

            –Ron Jasniow.ski ©2002

Future issues will provide you with more details on how you can reach the next level of leadership success.

You may want to print this and discuss it at your next leadership team meeting.

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