I was talking to my friend, Joe, the other day. He was fed up with the negativity that one of the guys in his team constantly displays. Have you ever experienced this? Joe said that this guy complains about everything and it has a real negative impact on the others in the team. Joe told me that he decided to do something completely different with him.
He told this guy that he will be responsible for arranging the next training day in 2 months’ time. Despite being initially apprehensive about the project, Joe said that he could not believe the change in behaviour in this guy. This guy has taken this project to heart, to the extent that Joe says this training day is going to be something quite spectacular.
What is the learning in this?
Adults like to use their skills and experience in their role. And they like to feel valued.
This guy used to be a trainer a few years ago. Joe knew this but hadn’t considered it really relevant for the job. The project provided the guy an opportunity to demonstrate his talents and be recognised. It also meant that this guy couldn’t complain about the training days in the future. It’s a great outcome for everyone.
As a leader, getting to know your people isn’t about being soft and friendly. It is about gaining useful knowledge that can be used strategically in improving the productivity of the team. People respond well to recognition and feeling valued. Finding tasks that suit the individual will increase motivation and engagement. Both of which are at historic low levels in business today.
What untapped talents are present in your team?
