Be a Leader
As a manager it is important to set the example of what one expects from their employees. When it comes to management, we have to remember that we are not just monitoring our team but our team is also watching us to see how they should work within the department a good manager = a good team.
Definitely something I'm currently working on. Unfortunately, I am that manager that comes in late. I'm always the last out of the door 4-6 hours after everyone else leaves. they don't see that though. They see me coming in late constantly and it's a battle I'm trying to overcome.
Going through this tutorial actually helped me realize that no matter what the quality of work is, it doesn't matter if I don't have the respect or influence to make a difference if I'm not setting the example in the beginning of the day.
Hi Linda,
One tool that may help...
I have had some success reaching out to these employees personally (or in a group of 2 or 3) with genuine interest (pen and paper in-hand) and gaining their input ...as they are quite definitely informal leaders.
Their insights as to what they have observed work/fail over the last few managers and what they think needs to happen for production in the manager role and team are often quite illuminating.
I now have information I may not have ever considered and they have an interactive, listening manager that recognized them as having worth beyond their "job role".
In my experience, I would engage the employee to modify the responsibilities of the position. With a lengthy employ, they could have invaluable historical knowledge to assist in change.
I agree that a good manager is only as good as their team, but how do you deal with employees who have been at their job for so long they are to the point of just going through the motions. Long term employees have seen managers come and go and there is little that excite or motivate them. What is the best approach for this type of situation? It happens all the time.
I agree, your employees will appreciate and respect someone of higher authority when they are respected in return. Setting a good work example only benefits the entire department. A good manager is only as good as their team!
