Monday, May 26, 2014
Empowering People in the Workplace
Companies widely depend on their employees. When employees are empowered, they produce great results for the organisation. In most organisations, managers are responsible for empowering their people, and providing them the necessary tools to perform their duties and responsibilities. If managers don't empower employees, it may result in unhappy people and low level of productivity.
Here's a helpful guide on how to empower people at work:
1. Assign projects and tasks according to skill. Try not to give tasks that aren't within someone's skill level, otherwise, doubt will emerge within the employee and significantly decreases his self-confidence level. Assign a specific job and be sure to make yourself available to attend to or answer any of his concerns and questions.
2. Listen to them. Pay close attention to any suggestions or complaints. It's very much possible that employees understand their duties and responsibilities better than you do. Listen to their thoughts and ideas about making their jobs a lot easier. Credit those who present ideas that deserve to be used. Acknowledging them privately and publicly raises their morale.
3. Communicate with them. Talk to your people regarding any changes the department or the entire organisation may face. Although you don't want to disclose plans too soon, making sure they're informed shows you care about their well-being. Communicate with them once in a while to know their satisfaction levels about the entire organisation.
4. Give some decision-making responsibilities to those who prove themselves to be effective and competent at taking on crucial tasks or projects. A manager should build an environment that supports the decision-making process, which can help your people to empower themselves.
5. Build a positive work environment. Create policies that could help in this endeavor. Never use dictatorship. People have the tendency to be more open to instructions when they feel that they're part of a team. When employees' contributions are valued, they would be able to generate best results.
6. Show that you appreciate what they do for the company. Recognize them when they've accomplished a challenging goal or done the extra mile. For instance, if someone meets his quota, show appreciation by sending an email or note of congratulations or giving a bonus or incentive.
7. Provide valuable resources. Equip your people with the right technological resources and training they need to achieve best results. If you don't have the resources they need, seek help from professionals who do. Visit the website of VervePotential to know how professional leadership and management skills courses can help you empower your employees and help them perform their best at work.