Category: Blog

Culture Fit Hiring Is Out. 3 Shocking Reasons Why

Culture Fit Hiring Is Out. 3 Shocking Reasons Why

Cultural fit assessments have long been a part of the hiring process, with over 80% of recruiters believing that culture is a prominent factor in selecting candidates. However, a shift is happening in the hiring world: culture fit hiring is being phased out. In this blog, we will explore the reasons behind this change and why you must adapt your hiring practices accordingly.
Table of Contents

What is Cultural Fit Hiring?

Organizational culture plays a vital role in determining a company’s success. It influences how employees interact, make decisions, and work towards achieving common goals. Culture fit hiring is designed to evaluate whether a candidate aligns with an organization’s values, beliefs, and behaviors. These assessments of “fit” typically involve pre-employment tests, personality questionnaires, and specific interview questions.

The Evolution of Cultural Fit in the Workplace

The evolution of cultural fit in the workplace has been a dynamic process shaped by changing trends and priorities. Initially, culture fit hirings were essential for ensuring organizational cohesion and harmony. However, as workplaces have become more diverse and inclusive, the focus has shifted towards fostering a culture of belonging and respect for individual differences. Organizations are now recognizing the limitations of traditional culture fit hiring in promoting diversity and innovation. As we move towards a more globalized and interconnected world, adapting, learning new skills, and collaborating effectively across cultures are becoming increasingly important. Forward-thinking organizations are reevaluating their culture fit hiring strategies in response to these shifts. They incorporate inclusive practices beyond surface-level similarities to embrace diverse perspectives and experiences. Organizations can make hiring decisions that align with their current culture and propel them toward future success by prioritizing skills, values, and behaviors that contribute to a culture of innovation and collaboration. Read more: How Company Culture Shapes Employee Motivation? A Manager’s Guide

How Cultural Fit Hiring Used to Benefit Organizations?

Cultural fit hiring benefits organizations by helping them maintain a cohesive and harmonious work environment. By evaluating candidates’ compatibility with the organizational culture, companies could ensure that employees share similar values and beliefs, leading to better teamwork and productivity. Additionally, culture fit hiring helped reduce turnover rates as employees aligned with the company culture were more likely to stay long-term. Overall, these hiring practices provided a structured approach to hiring that contributed to organizational stability and success.
OtherInterestingReads

The Shift Away from Cultural Fit Hiring

The hiring process has evolved significantly over the years, and the importance placed on cultural fit hiring has changed. While cultural fit assessments were once seen as an essential part of hiring, organizations are shifting away from this approach for several reasons. The shift from culture fit in the hiring process is not happening in isolation. It is part of broader trends that are influencing hiring practices across industries. These trends reflect the changing needs and expectations of the workforce and the evolving nature of organizational culture. One of the key trends is the growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Organizations are realizing that a diverse workforce brings a range of perspectives, ideas, and experiences that can lead to innovation and better decision-making.  Another trend is the changing nature of organizational culture. As organizations adapt to new technologies, globalization, and remote work, their culture evolves. Traditional cultural fit hiring may not accurately capture the nuances of this changing culture. Organizations need to be flexible and open to different work styles, communication methods, and ways of thinking to thrive in the modern business landscape. Lastly, hiring practices have a growing emphasis on skills and adaptability. As technology advances and industries evolve, the demand for specific skill sets changes rapidly. Organizations are now prioritizing candidates who can learn, adapt, and acquire new skills as needed. This shift towards skills and adaptability ensures that organizations remain competitive and can respond to changing market demands.

Reason 1: The Diversity and Inclusion Challenge

Reason 1 for the shift away from cultural fit hiring is the challenge of diversity and inclusion. While culture fit hiring was once seen as a way to ensure that candidates are aligned with an organization’s values and behaviors, they can undermine diversity efforts and hinder the creation of inclusive workplaces. Diversity and inclusion have become increasingly important in the business world. Organizations recognize that diverse teams bring a range of perspectives, ideas, and experiences that can lead to innovation and better decision-making. However, cultural fit assessments often prioritize candidates who share values, beliefs, and behaviors similar to those of the existing organizational culture. It can result in the exclusion of candidates from different backgrounds or perspectives, leading to a lack of diversity within the organization.  For instance: the tech industry, which has faced criticism for its lack of diversity. Many tech companies have used culture fit to hire candidates who align with the existing company culture, often resulting in a homogenous workforce dominated by individuals from similar backgrounds. This lack of diversity has limited innovation and perpetuated biases within these organizations. To illustrate the impact of culture fit hiring on diversity efforts, let’s consider an example. Imagine a company that values innovation and creativity. They prioritize hiring candidates willing to take risks and think outside the box. However, if the cultural fit hiring focuses solely on these traits, it inadvertently exclude candidates from different cultural backgrounds with unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches. By broadening the hiring criteria to include culture contribution, the company can ensure that they are considering a diverse range of candidates who can bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the table.

Reason 2: The Changing Nature of Work

Remote work and global teams have become the norms in today’s work landscape. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work, and organizations have realized the benefits of this flexible work arrangement. Traditional cultural fit hiring prioritizes candidates who align with the existing organizational culture, but this is not be conducive to fostering innovation and agility. Additionally, globalization has made it increasingly common for teams to consist of members from different countries and cultural backgrounds. These new norms have necessitated a shift in hiring practices. Conventional culture fit hiring, which often focus on in-person interactions and on-site collaboration, does not accurately reflect a candidate’s ability to thrive in a remote work environment. Remote work requires individuals to be self-motivated, independent, and adept at communication and collaboration, which culture fit hiring may not capture. Similarly, global teams require individuals who can work effectively across cultural boundaries and adapt to different work styles and communication norms.

Reason 3: The Rise of Skills and Adaptability

Reason 3 for the shift away from culture fit hiring is the rise of skills and adaptability at work as key factors in the hiring process. Organizations recognize that skills and a growth mindset are more important than cultural fit when it comes to ensuring the success of their hires. In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, skills and adaptability are crucial for employees to thrive. Market demands are constantly evolving, and organizations need employees who can learn new skills, adapt to change, and bring fresh ideas to the table. This shift in focus from culture fit to skills reflects the changing needs of the workforce and the business environment. Traditional cultural fit hiring often prioritizes candidates who align with the existing organizational culture, but this is not be conducive to fostering innovation and adaptability. By focusing on skills and a growth mindset, organizations can ensure that they are hiring individuals who have the potential to learn, grow, and contribute to the organization’s success. Furthermore, skills are more tangible and measurable than culture fit. Organizations can assess candidates based on their qualifications, experiences, and abilities, which provides a more objective and data-driven approach to hiring. This helps organizations make more informed decisions and ensures they hire individuals with the skills needed to excel in their roles.

Why Traditional Culture Fit Hiring Doesn’t Apply Anymore

The approach to cultural fit hiring no longer applies in today’s changing work environment. Organizational cultures are no longer static or homogenous, and the demands of the modern workforce require a more dynamic and adaptable approach to hiring. Cultural fit hiring focus on aligning candidates with the existing organizational culture. This approach assumes that there is a single, well-defined culture within an organization and that candidates must fit into that culture to be successful. However, organizational cultures are complex and evolving, shaped by various factors such as industry trends, technological advancements, and diverse workforce demographics. The changing work environment demands employees who can adapt to new technologies, collaborate effectively in virtual teams, and navigate the complexities of global and multicultural workplaces. Culture fit hiring does not accurately capture these skills and characteristics, leading to the exclusion of candidates who could bring valuable contributions to the organization. Additionally, in today’s work environment, the emphasis on skills and performance has become more important than cultural fit. Organizations recognize that hiring candidates based on their skills, abilities, and potential for growth is more valuable than hiring for culture fit alone. Skills can be developed and nurtured, whereas cultural fit is often based on subjective judgments and perceptions.

Success Stories: Companies that Moved Beyond Culture Fit

Many successful companies have moved beyond cultural fit hiring and embraced a more inclusive and skills-based approach to hiring. These companies recognize the importance of diversity, adaptability, and skills in building high-performing teams and driving innovation. A success story is Netflix, which prioritizes skills and attributes such as curiosity, judgment, and communication over cultural fit. Netflix recognizes that a diverse workforce with different perspectives and backgrounds is crucial for understanding and meeting the needs of its varied customer base.

How Can You Move Away from Cultural Fit Hiring?

Moving away from cultural fit hiring requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. Here are some steps that organizations can take to make this transition:
  • Rethink Job Descriptions and Requirements: Start by revisiting job descriptions and requirements to ensure they are inclusive and focused on skills and qualifications rather than cultural fit.
  • Train Hiring Managers: Provide training to hiring managers on unconscious biases at work and the importance of diversity in the workplace. It will help them make more objective and inclusive hiring decisions.
  • Use Skill-Based Assessments: Implement skill-based assessments to evaluate candidates’ abilities and potential. It will provide a more accurate and fair assessment of their suitability for the role.
  • Conduct Structured Interviews: Use structured interviews with standardized questions to ensure consistency and fairness in the evaluation process. It will help reduce bias and ensure that all candidates are assessed on the same criteria.
  • Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Create a culture that values diversity and inclusion. You can do this through policies, initiatives, and programs that foster a sense of belonging and promote equal opportunities for all employees.

Conclusion

In today’s evolving work landscape, cultural fit hiring is facing scrutiny for various reasons, including diversity challenges, changing work dynamics, and the emphasis on skills and adaptability. Companies are now focusing on assessing cultural contribution rather than mere fit to foster inclusive and adaptive work environments. By prioritizing skills and a growth mindset over traditional cultural fit criteria, you can create diverse and resilient teams that thrive in the face of new challenges. Embracing this shift requires a willingness to adapt hiring practices and build frameworks that value inclusivity and innovation. It’s time to move beyond outdated norms and embrace the future of work.

Deeksha Sharma

Deeksha, with a solid educational background in human resources, bridges the gap between your goals and you with valuable insights and strategies within leadership development. Her unique perspectives, powered by voracious reading, lead to thoughtful pieces that tie conventional know-how and innovative approaches together to enable success for management professionals.

Thinking of culture? Sharpen your communication.

Start with Risely’s free communication skill assessment for people managers to evaluate yourself today.

Start Now

Hiring Manager Interview Training Made Easy

Hiring Manager Interview Training Made Easy

You’ve crafted the perfect job description, your social media channels are buzzing, and a stack of impressive resumes lands on your desk. Success! You’ve attracted top talent. But then comes the interview stage – that critical moment where you assess skills, cultural fit, and potential. Here’s the thing: even the most promising candidate on paper can turn into a costly misstep. According to a report by SHRM, a bad hire can cost a company upwards of a quarter-million dollars. That’s not just the initial recruitment fees; it factors in lost productivity, onboarding costs for the replacement, and the impact on team morale.  So, how can you avoid this expensive scenario? Here’s where Learning and Development professionals step in with the power of hiring manager interview training. By equipping hiring managers with the right skills, L&D helps them make informed decisions that lead to successful hires and build a thriving team. Let’s discuss hiring manager interview training in more detail.
Table of Contents

Why Do Hiring Managers Need Interview Training?

So you’ve attracted talented candidates—that’s fantastic news! But with great opportunity comes great responsibility, especially during the interview stage. Even the most well-intentioned hiring manager can stumble during interviews, leading to costly mistakes. Why is hiring manager interview training so crucial? Let’s break it down. Remember that quarter-million dollar price tag we mentioned for a bad hire? Interview training directly impacts that number. By honing your skills, you can avoid wasted training costs, lost productivity from a bad fit, and the disruption of replacing someone who isn’t working out. But the impact goes beyond the bottom line. Interviews can also be a legal minefield. Training equips you to conduct fair, unbiased, and regulatory-compliant interviews, protecting your company and ensuring a positive experience for all candidates. Of course, the ultimate goal is to find the perfect person for the job. Interview training empowers you to do just that. You’ll learn how to assess a candidate’s skills, experience, and cultural fit through effective questioning and evaluation techniques. This ensures you’re not just hiring someone qualified but someone who will thrive within your team. Let’s face it: a bad interview experience can leave a lasting impression, not a good one. Candidates talk! By prioritizing a positive candidate experience through skilled interviewing, you’ll make the right hire and build your employer brand. Finally, imagine walking into that interview room feeling confident and prepared. That’s the power of interview training. It equips you with the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions, ask the right questions, and, ultimately, build a thriving team. Are you a hiring manager? Read more here: Mastering the Art of Hiring: A Comprehensive Hiring Manager Interview Guide

The Impact of Not Providing Hiring Manager Interview Training

Assume a talented candidate leaves an interview feeling confused and undervalued. The questions were all over the place, the interviewer seemed unprepared, and the overall experience left a bad taste in their mouth. Unfortunately, this scenario is more common than we’d like to admit, and it’s a direct result of not investing in hiring manager interview training. As L&D professionals, you know the importance of equipping your teams with the right skills. But when it comes to hiring managers, a lack of training can have a ripple effect that goes far beyond the need to onboard a new recruit. Let’s explore the ripple effect that can occur when hiring managers lack the proper interview skills.
  • Tarnished Employer Brand: News travels fast, especially in today’s digital age. A series of bad interview experiences can leave a lasting negative impression on potential candidates. This can make it difficult to attract top talent in the future and hinder your ability to build a strong and diverse team.
  • Missed Opportunities: Without proper training in effective questioning and evaluation techniques, hiring managers can overlook highly qualified candidates who simply don’t “fit the mold” during interviews. This not only deprives your company of valuable skills and perspectives but also frustrates the overlooked candidates.
  • Internal Disruption: A bad hire can significantly disrupt team dynamics. Imagine integrating someone who lacks the necessary skills or does not mesh well with the team culture. This can lead to decreased morale, lower productivity, and a higher turnover rate. The cost of onboarding and then replacing a bad hire can be significant, straining your budget and resources.
  • Training Costs Multiplied:  Let’s face it, sometimes the best-laid plans go awry. When a bad hire needs to be retrained or replaced, it creates a double whammy. Not only did you invest time and resources in the initial bad hire, but now you’re faced with additional training costs for their replacement. This highlights the importance of getting it right the first time through effective hiring manager interview training.
Hiring manager interview training is a proactive step toward building a thriving team. By equipping your hiring managers with the necessary skills, you’ll be well on your way to conducting positive and productive interviews that attract, assess, and ultimately hire the best talent for your company.
this image represents the risely blog on hiring manager interview training

What Your Hiring Manager Interview Training Program Needs

Imagine your hiring managers are confident, prepared, and excited to lead the interview process. They know how to ask the right questions, uncover potential, and make informed decisions that lead to successful hires. A well-designed hiring manager interview training program can achieve this empowered state. As an L&D professional, you understand the importance of equipping your hiring managers with the necessary skills to excel in their roles. So, let’s explore the key elements that should be woven into your hiring manager interview training program.

Interview Fundamentals

A strong foundation is essential for any successful endeavor. Your training program should begin by grounding your hiring managers in the core principles of effective interviewing. This includes:
  • Behavioral Interviewing Techniques: The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a powerful tool that helps hiring managers elicit specific examples of a candidate’s past behavior, providing valuable insights into their future performance.
  • Effective Questioning Strategies: Move beyond basic “yes or no” questions. Equip your managers with the ability to craft open-ended and situational questions that delve deeper into a candidate’s skills, experiences, and thought processes.
  • Active Listening Skills: This is more than simply hearing what’s said. Active listening involves paying close attention, providing verbal and non-verbal engagement cues, and asking clarifying questions to demonstrate genuine understanding.
  • Nonverbal Communication: Body language speaks volumes. Train your managers to be mindful of their nonverbal cues and how to interpret a candidate’s body language to gain a more holistic understanding.

Evaluation and Assessment

A successful interview goes beyond simply checking a box on a resume. Your program should equip hiring managers with the tools to effectively assess candidates’ suitability for the role. Here’s how:
  • Developing Clear Job Descriptions and Candidate Criteria: A well-defined job description is a roadmap for the interview process. Train managers to translate those requirements into clear criteria for evaluating potential candidates.
  • Assessing Cultural Fit and Soft Skills: The right person for the job isn’t just about technical skills. Train managers to evaluate a candidate’s cultural fit and soft skills, like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, to ensure they’ll thrive within your unique team dynamic.
The legal implications of a poorly conducted interview can be severe. Your program should ensure hiring managers understand and adhere to legal best practices:
  • Avoiding Discrimination and Unconscious Bias: Provide training on unconscious bias and strategies to mitigate its impact on the interview process. This ensures a fair and equal playing field for all candidates.
  • Understanding Interview Legality and Best Practices: Managers should be educated about relevant legal requirements surrounding interviewing. This includes understanding what questions are appropriate and maintaining confidentiality throughout the process.

Effective Interview Techniques

Now that your hiring managers have a solid foundation, it’s time to hone their interviewing skills. Here’s where your program can elevate them from interviewers to interview conductors:
  • Structuring a Successful Interview Flow: Develop a framework for a structured interview that allows for consistent evaluation and avoids meandering conversations.
  • Handling Difficult Candidates and Providing Constructive Feedback: Not all interviews go smoothly. Equip managers with strategies to handle challenging candidates while still providing constructive feedback.
  • Selling the Job Opportunity and Company Culture: A great interview goes both ways! Train managers to effectively showcase the role and your company culture, leaving a positive and lasting impression on potential hires.
By incorporating these essential elements, you can create a hiring manager interview training program that empowers your hiring managers, streamlines the interview process, and ultimately leads to your organization’s acquisition of top talent. Remember, a well-trained hiring manager is an investment in your company’s future success!
OtherInterestingReads

Implementing Your Hiring Manager Interview Training Program

You’ve designed a fantastic hiring manager interview training program. Now comes the exciting part: putting it into action! As an L&D professional, you know that successful training goes beyond simply crafting a curriculum. Here are some practical tips to ensure your hiring manager interview training initiative takes root and thrives within your organization:

Scheduling Strategies

Let’s face it, busy schedules are a reality. The key to successful implementation is finding a scheduling approach that works for you and your hiring managers. Consider these options:
  • Bite-Sized Learning: Break down your training program into shorter, more manageable modules. This will allow for easier scheduling integration and reduce busy managers’ perceived time commitment.
  • Off-the-Clock Options: To accommodate varying schedules, consider offering evening or weekend sessions. Consider offering incentives or recognition programs to encourage participation outside regular work hours.
  • Leveraging Technology: Embrace online learning platforms and video conferencing to offer training remotely. This allows geographically dispersed managers to participate without travel limitations.

Resource Roundup

A well-equipped training program sets the stage for success. Here’s how to ensure you have the resources you need:
  • Budgeting for Impact: Work with your leadership team to secure the necessary budget for training materials, technology, and any potential external trainers you might involve. Highlight the return on investment (ROI) of a skilled hiring team in terms of reduced bad hires and increased productivity.
  • Internal Expertise: Don’t underestimate the power of in-house expertise. Tap into HR professionals or high-performing hiring managers to contribute their knowledge and experience to the training program.

Ongoing Support and Reinforcement

Training is just the beginning. To ensure lasting impact, consider these strategies:
  • Post-Training Coaching: Offer ongoing coaching and support to hiring managers as they apply their newly acquired skills in real-world interview scenarios.
  • Peer Learning Groups: Facilitate peer learning groups where hiring managers can share best practices, troubleshoot challenges, and continue their development journey together.
  • Refresher Courses: Provide periodic refresher courses to keep hiring managers updated on the latest interviewing techniques and legal best practices.
By implementing these strategies, you can equip your hiring managers with the skills they need to make informed decisions, build strong teams, and, ultimately, drive your organization’s success.

Measuring the Effectiveness of Your Hiring Manager Interview Training

You’ve invested time, resources, and creativity into developing a stellar hiring manager interview training program. But the real test lies in its effectiveness. As an L&D professional, you understand the importance of measuring and evaluating your training initiatives. Here’s how to gauge the success of your hiring manager interview training program and ensure it continues to deliver exceptional results.

Tracking Key Performance Indicators

Data is your friend when it comes to measuring training effectiveness. Let’s delve into some key metrics you can track:
  • Interview Success Rates: Monitor the success rate of interviews conducted by hiring managers who have completed the training program. This could be measured by the number of qualified candidates who move on to the next stage of the hiring process compared to the overall interview pool.
  • Candidate Satisfaction Scores: Gather Feedback from candidates through surveys or exit interviews. This can provide valuable insights into their interview experience and how effectively hiring managers communicate and assess skills.
  • Hiring Manager Feedback: Don’t neglect your trainees’ voices! Conduct surveys or hold focus groups to gather Feedback from hiring managers on the program’s content, delivery, and impact on their interviewing skills and confidence.

Qualitative Measures

While quantitative metrics are crucial, qualitative data adds another vital dimension to your evaluation. Consider these additional methods:
  • Skill Demonstrations: Observe hiring managers conducting mock interviews or reviewing real-world interview recordings. This allows you to assess their application of learned techniques and identify areas for further improvement.
  • Post-Training Performance Reviews: Include a section in hiring manager performance reviews to evaluate their interview effectiveness. Look for evidence of applying learned techniques and improved interview outcomes.
  • Time-to-Hire: Track changes in the average time it takes to fill open positions after implementing the training program. A shortened time to hire can indicate improved interviewing efficiency and candidate selection.

Continuous Improvement

Training isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process. By continuously evaluating your program, you can ensure it remains relevant and practical:
  • Regularly Review Metrics: Schedule regular reviews of your chosen metrics to identify trends and areas for improvement.
  • Gather Feedback Consistently: Seek Feedback from hiring managers and candidates regularly to understand their evolving needs and challenges.
  • Adapt and Refine: Based on your evaluation findings, be prepared to adapt your training program by updating content, incorporating new technologies, or offering refresher courses.
Establishing a culture of continuous evaluation and improvement can ensure that your hiring manager’s interview training program remains at the forefront of effective interview practices.

Wrapping Up

Attracting top candidates is just half the battle in today’s competitive talent market. The real challenge is selecting the right person for the job through effective interviewing, and this is where hiring manager interview training shines. Equipping your hiring managers with the necessary skills and knowledge can empower them to conduct successful interviews that assess qualifications, uncover potential, and lead to informed hiring decisions. The benefits for your organization’s success are undeniable. So, L&D leaders, invest in your hiring managers—invest in effective interview training. It’s a strategic investment in building a strong and successful workforce for the future.

Suprabha Sharma

Suprabha, a versatile professional who blends expertise in human resources and psychology, bridges the divide between people management and personal growth with her novel perspectives at Risely. Her experience as a human resource professional has empowered her to visualize practical solutions for frequent managerial challenges that form the pivot of her writings.

Unlock a new way of leadership development. (For free!)

Sign up on Risely for a 14-day trial to find custom solutions to all people management challenges.

Start Now

How To Set A One-On-One Meeting Agenda? 5 Examples For Managers

How To Set A One-On-One Meeting Agenda? 5 Examples For Managers

Managers play a critical role in supporting the growth and development of their team members. One-on-one meetings provide dedicated time to regularly connect with your direct reports. These meetings are an opportunity to discuss progress, provide feedback, and align on goals and expectations. However, without a well-structured agenda, one-on-one meetings can become unproductive and miss the key points that must be addressed. In this blog, we will explore the importance of setting a one-on-one meeting agenda and provide five examples managers can use to make their meetings more effective. We will discuss the essential elements of an influential meeting agenda, including status updates, best practices, and next steps. Additionally, we will cover how you can create a comfortable and open environment during the meeting and avoid common mistakes that can hinder the effectiveness of one-on-one sessions.
Table of Contents

Why do you need a Clear Agenda for one-on-one meetings?

One of the most common mistakes in one-on-one meetings is the lack of preparation and a clear agenda. Without proper planning, these meetings can become unstructured and unfocused. Here are some reasons why preparation and a clear agenda are crucial for meeting effectiveness:
  • Preparation allows you and your team members to gather relevant information, feedback, and resources before the meeting.
  • A clear agenda helps guide the discussion and ensures that essential topics are covered.
  • Preparation and a clear agenda demonstrate that the manager values the employee’s time and is invested in their growth and development.
  • A structured agenda allows both the manager and the employee to come prepared and contribute to a productive discussion.
By prioritizing preparation and developing a clear agenda, you can conduct more effective one-on-one meetings that address employee needs and promote growth and development.

What should be included in a one-on-one meeting agenda?

An effective meeting agenda for a one-on-one meeting should include essential components that ensure a productive and meaningful discussion. Here are some key elements to consider:
  • The Basics: Define the basic details of the meeting, such as its location, date, and timing.
  • Status Updates: Allocate time to discuss the progress of ongoing projects, tasks, or deliverables. This lets you and the employee stay informed and address any challenges or updates.
  • Goal Setting and Future Planning: Dedicate a section of the agenda to share and discuss the current and future goals. This could include sharing tips, strategies, or resources that can help enhance productivity or improve work processes.
  • Next Steps: Identify and discuss the next steps or action items that need to be taken after the meeting. This ensures that the manager and the employee are aligned on the follow-up actions and responsibilities.
By including these essential components in the meeting agenda, managers can ensure a structured, focused discussion covering critical topics and promoting productivity.

One-on-One Meeting Agenda Template for Managers

Let’s look at a structured framework for conducting one-on-one meetings. Ideally, you should customize the agenda based on the individual needs and goals of the employee and your team.

[Employee Name] One-on-One Meeting Agenda

Date: [Date of the Meeting] Time: [Time of the Meeting] Location: [Location or Virtual Platform] Agenda: [Key Goals of the Meeting] Opening and Check-In
  • Brief welcome and introduction.
  • Opportunity for the employee to share any updates or concerns.
Progress Review
  • Discuss achievements and challenges from the previous period.
  • Provide feedback on performance and recognize accomplishments.
  • Address any roadblocks or concerns that the employee may be facing.
Goal Setting and Alignment
  • Review progress on previous goals and milestones.
  • Discuss new goals aligned with individual and company objectives.
  • Align goals with broader team and organizational priorities.
Feedback and Development
  • Provide specific feedback on performance, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Discuss strategies for skill enhancement or professional development.
  • Offer resources or support to help the employee reach their full potential.
Problem-Solving
  • Identify and discuss any specific challenges or issues the employee is facing.
  • Brainstorm potential solutions and select the most effective one.
  • Develop an action plan with clear steps and responsibilities.
Career Path Discussion
  • Explore the employee’s long-term career goals and aspirations.
  • Discuss growth opportunities within the organization and potential development pathways.
  • Develop a plan or roadmap for the employee’s career growth and advancement.
Closing and Next Steps
  • Summarize key takeaways and action items from the meeting.
  • Confirm any follow-up tasks or meetings.
  • Express gratitude and appreciation for the employee’s time and participation.
Additional Notes:
  • [Any additional notes or reminders for the meeting, such as relevant documents to review or specific topics to address.]
Further, let’s look at specific examples of one-on-one meeting agendas to understand how the discussion can shape up in different contexts.
OtherInterestingReads

5 Examples of One-on-One Meeting Agendas

One-on-one meetings can take various forms and cover different topics depending on the manager’s and employee’s needs and goals. Here are five examples of agendas that you can adapt for your team members. Using these examples as a starting point, you can create customized one-on-one meeting agendas that facilitate a smooth and productive conversation.

One-on-One Meeting Agenda for Weekly Check-In: Focus on Progress and Concerns

The weekly check-in is a great way to stay updated on the employee’s progress, address concerns, and provide feedback. Here are some bullet points that you should include in this one-on-one meeting agenda:
  • Discuss the employee’s achievements and challenges from the previous week.
  • Share feedback on their performance and highlight areas of improvement.
  • Address any concerns or roadblocks that the employee may be facing.
  • Discuss team dynamics and opportunities for collaboration or support.
  • Set goals and action items for the upcoming week.
By focusing on progress and concerns, managers can ensure that employees feel supported and motivated and that any challenges are addressed promptly.

One-on-One Meeting Agenda for Goal-Setting Session: Aligning Individual and Company Objectives

The goal-setting session is an opportunity to align the employee’s individual goals with the company’s objectives. Here are some bullet points for this one-on-one meeting agenda:
  • Review the employee’s progress on previous goals and celebrate achievements.
  • Note down the areas of improvement and think about how to work toward them.
  • Discuss new goals that align with the employee’s professional growth and development.
  • Align the employee’s goals with the broader objectives of the team and the company.
  • Identify any potential challenges or support needed to achieve the goals.
  • Set milestones and action items to track goal progress.
By aligning individual and company objectives, you can ensure that the employee’s goals contribute to the overall success of the team and the organization. It also shows that you care about their journeys and value them enough to invest your time actively.

One-on-One Meeting Agenda for Feedback and Development Talk: Enhancing Skills and Performance

The feedback and development talk is an opportunity to provide constructive feedback to your team, discuss performance management, and identify opportunities for skill enhancement. Here are some bullet points that you can discuss in this one-on-one meeting agenda:
  • Share specific feedback on the employee’s performance, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Discuss performance management strategies and goals for the employee.
  • Identify opportunities for skill enhancement or professional development.
  • Provide resources or support to help the employee enhance their skills.
  • Set goals and action items to track progress and improvement.
Focusing on feedback and development can help managers support employees’ growth and help them reach their full potential. Your actions in this area show support and empower your team members to achieve their full potential. 

One-on-One Meeting Agenda for a Problem-Solving Meeting: Addressing Specific Challenges

The problem-solving meeting is designed to address specific challenges or issues the employee may face. For instance, you might have noticed one of your team members frequently missing deadlines or a team member needing some upskilling to perform better. Here are some key points that could be included in this one-on-one meeting agenda:
  • Identify the specific challenge or problem that the employee is facing. Define the signs that you have noted and ask their perspective, too.
  • Brainstorm potential solutions or strategies to address the challenge.
  • Discuss the pros and cons of each solution and select the most effective one.
  • Develop an action plan to implement the chosen solution.
  • Set follow-up meetings or checkpoints to track progress and resolve the problem.
Managers can help employees overcome challenges and find practical solutions by focusing on problem-solving. As a result, your team can trust you in challenging times.

One-on-One Meeting Agenda for a Career Path Discussion: Planning for Growth within the Organization

The career path discussion is focused on planning for the employee’s growth within the organization. While discussing an employee’s career may seem redundant, it’s helpful. Through these discussions, you can bring out their full potential and develop an excellent talent for your team. Moreover, the feeling of helping someone tangibly is a great one for people leaders; your team will remember you as the best they had. Here are some bullet points that could be included in this one-on-one meeting agenda:
  • Discuss the employee’s long-term career goals and aspirations.
  • Explore growth opportunities within the organization that align with the employee’s interests and skills.
  • Identify potential development opportunities or training programs that can help the employee progress in their career.
  • Discuss the employee’s performance and the skills or experiences needed to advance in their career.
  • Develop a plan or roadmap for the employee’s career growth within the organization.
By discussing the employee’s career path, managers can provide guidance and support for their professional development and help them achieve their long-term goals.

How to behave during the meeting? Best Practices for Managers

A one-on-one meeting requires effective communication and a genuine interest in the employee’s growth and success. Here are some best practices that you should follow for success:
  • Create a comfortable and open environment where employees feel safe sharing their thoughts and concerns.
  • Balance listening and speaking to encourage dialogue and ensure that both parties have an opportunity to contribute.
  • Be genuinely interested in the employee’s well-being and professional development. 
  • Actively listen and provide constructive feedback and guidance.
  • Follow up on action items and provide ongoing support and resources. Meetings are valuable only when the conversations are followed by actions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in One-on-One Meetings

While one-on-one meetings can be valuable and practical, there are common mistakes that you should be aware of and avoid. Managers can conduct more productive and meaningful one-on-one meetings by being mindful of these pitfalls.
  1. Lack of Preparation and Clear Agenda: Failing to prepare for the meeting and having a clear agenda can lead to unstructured and unfocused discussions. Managers should take the time to plan the meeting, set clear objectives, and develop a structured agenda to guide the conversation.
  2. Dominating the Conversation Instead of Facilitating: Managers should actively listen and encourage the employee to express their thoughts and concerns. Avoid dominating the conversation and allow space for the employee to contribute and share their perspective. While you are setting the agenda for the meeting, be ready for inputs from the team and actively encourage and include them.
  3. Neglecting Follow-up Actions and Feedback Implementation: Following up on action items and providing ongoing support is critical to the success of one-on-one meetings. You should implement agreed-upon actions and provide ongoing support to help employees achieve their goals.
By avoiding these common mistakes, managers can become better equipped to conduct effective and impactful one-on-one meetings that support the growth and development of their team members.

Conclusion

In conclusion, setting a clear agenda and objectives for one-on-one meetings is crucial for productive discussions with your team. You can foster a supportive and growth-oriented environment by focusing on progress, concerns, goal alignment, feedback, and career growth. Remember to listen actively, follow up on action items, and create a space for open dialogue. Avoid common mistakes like lack of preparation or dominating the conversation. Regular, effective one-on-one meetings can lead to stronger relationships, improved performance, and better alignment with organizational goals. Remember these best practices to make the most out of your one-on-one interactions.

Deeksha Sharma

Deeksha, with a solid educational background in human resources, bridges the gap between your goals and you with valuable insights and strategies within leadership development. Her unique perspectives, powered by voracious reading, lead to thoughtful pieces that tie conventional know-how and innovative approaches together to enable success for management professionals.

How strong are your one-on-one meetings?

Find accurate assessments of your skills for free with Risely!

Start Now

50+ Great One-On-One Meeting Questions For Managers

50+ Great One-On-One Meeting Questions For Managers

One-on-one meetings between managers and their team members are essential for fostering employee engagement, building strong relationships, and driving performance management. These meetings provide an opportunity to address important topics, discuss career goals, offer support, provide feedback, and create a space for open and honest communication. However, knowing what questions to ask during these one-on-one meetings can be challenging. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of essential questions managers can use to make the most of these meetings. These questions cover various topics, from achievements and challenges to work-life balance and professional development. By asking the right questions, you can gain valuable insights into their team members’ goals, aspirations, concerns, and suggestions for improvement. This can help managers better understand their team members’ needs, provide support, and foster a positive and productive work environment.
Table of Contents

Getting the questions for one-on-one meetings right 

Do you ever go blank thinking about what you should ask your team during the one-on-one meetings? Or, sometimes, everything seems too absurd or obvious to ask! In such moments, here are some tips to find good questions for one-on-one meetings with your team:
  • Keep the workplace boundaries alive: No one appreciates intruders, more so at the workplace. So, while you can impact and influence in many areas as a manager, be considerate about places that you should not approach. Avoid getting into personal matters or personalities; think of work and the professionals you work with—how can you best help them?
  • Approach from the point of care: Would you be open to sharing your most vulnerable side with someone you barely know? No, right? The same goes for your team members; they might not be very open from the get-go until they know that you are a well-wisher who wants to help them on their journey. Building bridges and relationships takes time, so be prepared to give it.
  • Personality and community differences exist: Some of your questions may not land precisely how you picture them. Think of the personality and communication style of the person you are talking to, and then proceed to set the agenda for the one-on-one meeting with their needs and attitudes in mind. You may need to ask some questions differently or wait multiple iterations before they are comfortable enough to open up.
With these ideas in mind, let’s examine some one-on-one meeting questions that you should ask your team at the next opportunity! 

One-on-One meeting questions for managers to ask

We have grouped the questions along important areas that a manager should talk about with their teams.

Appreciating achievements of your team

As a manager, it is essential to acknowledge and celebrate your team members’ achievements. You show your support and interest in their progress by asking this question. It also allows your team members to reflect on their accomplishments and highlight their strengths. These question can provide valuable insights into your team members’ career goals and personal growth. It creates an opportunity for them to share their successes and for you to recognize their efforts.
  • Can you share any accomplishments or milestones you’ve reached since our last meeting?
  • What progress have you made on your goals, and is there anything you’re particularly proud of?
  • Have you received any positive feedback or recognition from colleagues or clients recently?
  • How do you feel about your performance over the past [time period]? Any standout moments you’d like to highlight?
  • Is there a specific project or task you feel you excelled in recently? I’d love to hear more about it.
  • What challenges have you overcome recently, and how did you navigate them?
  • Are there any accomplishments you feel haven’t been fully recognized or acknowledged yet?
  • Is there anyone on the team who has made a significant contribution that you think deserves recognition?

Supporting your team’s growth

Supporting your team members in reaching their goals is crucial for your employee’s professional growth and engagement. By asking questions about this area, you demonstrate your commitment to their success and open a dialogue about how you can provide the necessary support. It allows your team members to express their needs, share their career aspirations, and discuss potential action items.
  • How can I best provide you with feedback and guidance as you work towards your goals?
  • Are there any training or development opportunities you believe would be beneficial for achieving your goals?
  • Would you like more frequent check-ins or support meetings to discuss your progress and challenges?
  • Do you feel that your current workload aligns with your goals, or do you need assistance in prioritizing tasks?
  • Are there any additional responsibilities or projects you’re interested in taking on to further your development?
  • Are there any connections or networking opportunities that would help you advance towards your goals?
  • Would you benefit from mentorship or coaching to help you navigate your career path?
  • How can I adjust our team’s priorities or structure to better align with your individual goals?

Challenges are important to talk about, too!

Identifying and addressing challenges is crucial for your team’s personal and professional growth. Here are some questions for one-on-one meetings to help you figure them out. It allows them to share their concerns and seek your guidance or support as their manager. Plus, it makes you an absolutely trustworthy and reliable manager!
  • Are there any aspects of your role or projects that you find particularly challenging?
  • Are there any areas where you’re feeling stuck or unsure of how to proceed?
  • Are there any external factors or circumstances impacting your work that you’d like to discuss?
  • Have you noticed any patterns or recurring issues that are causing frustration or difficulty?

Questions on work life balance in one-on-one meetings

A healthy work-life balance is crucial for employee well-being and overall job satisfaction. By asking this question, you demonstrate your concern for your team members’ personal lives and well-being. It allows them to reflect on their work-life balance and share any problems or suggestions for improvement. These one-on-one meeting questions also shows your commitment to their overall happiness. It helps build a positive and inclusive work culture, thus building a relationship outside deadlines.
  • Are there any specific areas where you feel your work-life balance could be improved?
  • How do you prioritize your personal well-being amidst your professional responsibilities?
  • Are there any adjustments to your work schedule or workload that you believe would contribute to a better work-life balance?
  • What activities or hobbies do you engage in outside of work to recharge and relax?

Supporting learning and growth in one-on-one meetings

You encourage your team members to reflect on their skills and identify areas for improvement during one-on-one meetings. It allows them to express their interests and career aspirations. By understanding their skill development goals, you can provide resources, training opportunities, and guidance to help them acquire the desired skills. This question demonstrates your commitment to their professional development and fosters a culture of continuous learning within your team.
  • What specific skills do you feel are important for your role, and would you like to focus on developing or improving?
  • Can you share any specific career goals or aspirations you have that involve skill development?
  • Are there any particular areas of your job where you feel you could benefit from additional training or support?
  • How do you envision your skill set evolving over the next year or two, and what steps do you think are necessary to achieve that?
  • Have you come across any learning opportunities or resources lately?

Make the feedback loop complete

Asking for feedback on your management style shows your openness to growth and improvement as a manager. It allows your team members to share their perspectives on how you can better support them and create a positive work environment. You can adjust your management approach and enhance team dynamics by understanding their feedback. These one-on-one meeting questions promotes open communication, trust, and collaboration.
  • How would you describe our team dynamics, and are there any areas where you think we could improve?
  • Can you share any experiences where you felt particularly supported or challenged by my management style?
  • What specific actions or behaviors do you believe contribute to a positive work environment, and how can I incorporate them into my management approach?
  • Are there any aspects of my management style that you find particularly effective or ineffective?
  • What suggestions do you have for me to better support you and the rest of the team in achieving our goals?

One-on-one meeting questions for professional growth

Discussing your team members’ career aspirations and goals is crucial for their engagement and retention. By asking this question, you encourage them to reflect on their long-term career path and share their aspirations. It allows you to align their goals with the team’s objectives and create growth opportunities. This question fosters a sense of purpose, motivation, and loyalty within your team.
  • What specific career goals do you hope to achieve within the next year?
  • What are your professional development goals for the next quarter?
  • How do you see your current role contributing to your long-term career aspirations?
  • Are there any skills or experiences you feel are essential for advancing your career?
  • What support or resources do you believe would be most helpful in achieving your career goals?
  • Have you identified any potential opportunities for growth or advancement within our team or organization?
  • Are there any areas of professional development you would like to focus on to further your career?
  • What steps do you think are necessary to progress along your desired career path, and how can I assist you in taking those steps?

Make the team a shared space with thoughtful one-on-one meeting questions

You can encourage your team members to share their perspectives on the team and suggest improvements through questions in one-on-one meetings. It allows them to voice their concerns, ideas, and suggestions for better collaboration and team operations. These one-on-one meeting questions promotes transparency, trust, and open dialogue within your team. It also helps them see the team as something of their own instead of just another set of people to handle.
  • Do you have any suggestions for improving communication channels or platforms within our team?
  • Are there any specific communication practices or protocols you believe we should implement to improve collaboration and clarity?
  • Do you think our team meetings are effective in promoting communication and collaboration? If not, what changes would you propose?
  • Are there any tools or technologies you believe could facilitate better communication and information sharing within our team?
  • What are your thoughts on the team’s current dynamics? Do you see any challenges that could be hampering our progress?
  • Is there anything you feel is missing in our current project management tools?
  • Do you feel your work aligns with your personal values and our company’s mission?
  • Are there any projects you’re particularly excited to work on?

Keep the conversation open-ended

Providing an opportunity for open discussion is essential for addressing any additional concerns or topics your team members may have. By asking these one-on-one meeting questions, you create a space for them to share anything on their mind. It allows for a more personalized and meaningful conversation, fostering trust and building solid relationships with your team. This encourages open communication, promotes engagement, and ensures all critical topics are addressed, even when you might have missed them on the agenda! Here’s how you can prompt your team to share their thoughts toward the end of the discussions:
  • Are there any personal or professional matters that you would like to discuss further?
  • Is there anything specific that has been on your mind lately that you’d like to talk about?
  • Do you have any questions, concerns, or ideas that you’d like to share with me?
  • Is there any feedback you have for me regarding our recent interactions or team dynamics?
  • Are there any challenges or opportunities that you think we should address as a team?
  • Do you have any suggestions for improving our work environment or team culture?
  • Is there anything that you feel has been overlooked or needs more attention within our team?
  • Is there anything else on your mind that you’d like to discuss?

Keeping one-on-one meetings effective: how to set up 1-1 chats?

In order to prepare effective one-on-one meeting questions, it is important to follow best practices that promote meaningful conversations and address important topics
  • Set a meeting agenda: Having a clear agenda for one-on-one meetings helps provide structure to the meeting and ensures that all important topics are covered.
  • Ask open-ended questions: Open-ended questions encourage team members to share their thoughts and feelings, leading to more meaningful conversations.
  • Use active listening skills: Actively listen to your team members’ responses and show genuine interest in their perspectives. This helps build trust and strengthens the manager-employee relationship.
  • Tailor your questions: Each team member is unique, with different needs and goals. Tailor your questions to their individual circumstances to ensure that the conversation is relevant and impactful.
  • Follow up on action items: After discussing important topics, follow up on any action items or commitments made during the meeting. Provide the necessary support and resources to help your team members achieve their goals.

Summing Up

In conclusion, effective one-on-one meetings are vital for fostering strong relationships and boosting team morale. By asking thoughtful questions tailored to each team member, you demonstrate your support and commitment to their growth. Remember, listening actively and providing constructive feedback are key elements in making these meetings successful. Implementing these best practices will not only improve individual performance but also contribute to the success of the entire team. Embrace the opportunity to connect, understand, and empower your team members through meaningful one-on-one interactions.

Deeksha Sharma

Deeksha, with a solid educational background in human resources, bridges the gap between your goals and you with valuable insights and strategies within leadership development. Her unique perspectives, powered by voracious reading, lead to thoughtful pieces that tie conventional know-how and innovative approaches together to enable success for management professionals.

How strong are your one-on-one meetings?

Find out now for free with Risely’s one-on-one meeting assessment for managers.

Start Now

Manager Development Goals And How To Reach Them: Opportunities And Areas To Focus On

Manager Development Goals And How To Reach Them: Opportunities And Areas To Focus On

You’ve meticulously crafted a development program for your high-potential employees, but their managers just aren’t on the same page. Confusing feedback and a lack of clear direction leave these future leaders feeling frustrated and uninspired. Unfortunately, this scenario is all too common. But there’s good news! Data from Gallup shows that organizations with well-trained managers see a whopping 70% increase in employee engagement. That significantly boosts morale, productivity, and your bottom line. So, how do we bridge this gap and empower managers to become effective development coaches? The answer lies in establishing clear manager development goals. These goals are a roadmap that equips managers with the knowledge and skills to nurture and develop their teams. By focusing on specific manager development areas and creating targeted manager development opportunities, you’ll transform your managers from bystanders to active partners in building a high-performing leadership pipeline within your organization. Let’s discuss this in more detail!
Table of Contents

Why Invest in Manager Development Goals?

So, L&D leaders, let’s dive into the compelling reasons why investing in manager development goals is crucial for organizational success.
  • Boost Employee Engagement and Retention: What sets organizations apart with high employee satisfaction and retention rates? It’s often the presence of effective managers. When managers are equipped with the right development goals, they have the tools to engage and motivate their teams effectively. This increases productivity, creating a positive work environment.
  • Improve Team Performance: Effective and well-trained managers guide their teams toward achieving goals and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation. With the right development opportunities, managers can unlock their teams’ full potential and drive performance to new heights.
  • Develop Future Leaders: Investing in manager development isn’t just about the present—it’s about shaping your organization’s future. By providing managers with opportunities to grow and develop, you’re creating a pipeline of qualified candidates for future leadership positions. 
  • Enhance Employer Brand: In today’s competitive talent market, a strong employer brand is essential for attracting and retaining top talent. Organizations known for their commitment to manager development have a distinct advantage. They attract ambitious professionals who are eager to learn, grow, and advance their careers. Investing in manager development not only benefits current employees but also enhances your organization’s reputation as an employer of choice.
Investing in manager development goals is a strategic move that pays dividends in employee engagement, team performance, leadership pipeline, and employer brand. 

Building Better Managers: 5 Core Areas of Focus

Manager development goals are a roadmap that equips managers with the knowledge and skills to nurture and develop their teams. By focusing on specific areas and creating targeted opportunities, you can transform your managers from active partners in building a high-performing leadership pipeline within your organization. Let’s delve into some essential manager development areas that will empower your managers to become effective development coaches for their teams:

Strategic Thinking and Business Acumen

Have you ever encountered a manager who struggles to connect the dots between lofty company goals and their team’s day-to-day activities? This disconnect can be incredibly demotivating for employees. Equipping managers with strategic thinking skills empowers them to bridge this gap. Why it Matters:  When managers understand the bigger picture and how their team contributes to the organization’s success, they can create clear, actionable plans that inspire their teams and drive results. Development Opportunities:
  • Workshops on business acumen: These workshops can provide managers with a foundational understanding of key business concepts like finance, marketing, and operations.
  • Leadership development programs: These programs can help managers develop their strategic thinking skills, such as conducting market analysis, setting SMART goals, and making data-driven decisions.
How to Measure Success:
  • Track progress on achieving departmental or team-specific objectives aligned with broader company goals. Did sales quotas skyrocket after a strategic planning workshop for managers? Measurable improvements in team performance are a strong indicator of effective development.

Effective Coaching and Development

Great managers are more than just taskmasters; they’re coaches who identify and cultivate their teams’ potential. The manager development goals in this area focus on helping managers provide targeted coaching and development opportunities for their employees. Why it Matters:  Effective coaching empowers employees to grow, develop new skills, and reach their full potential. This translates to increased engagement, improved performance, and a more motivated workforce. Development Opportunities:
  • Training on coaching methodologies: Programs that teach managers to provide constructive feedback, set development goals, and hold effective coaching conversations are essential.
  • Peer coaching circles: Establishing peer coaching circles allows managers to share challenges, exchange ideas, and practice coaching skills with colleagues.
How to Measure Success:
  • Monitor employee performance improvements. Did employee proficiency increase after receiving coaching from their manager?
  • Track engagement in training programs. High participation rates in coaching-related training indicate a willingness to develop these skills.

Performance Management and Feedback

Imagine a scenario where employees are unsure of what’s expected of them or where feedback is unclear. This lack of direction can be incredibly demotivating. Manager development goals in this area focus on ensuring clear expectations are set, progress is monitored, and constructive feedback is provided to drive performance improvement. Why it Matters:  Effective performance management systems create a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. When employees understand expectations and receive regular feedback, they are empowered to take ownership of their performance. Development Opportunities:
  • Develop standardized performance metrics: To ensure performance evaluations are objective and fair, create clear and consistent metrics that align with departmental and organizational goals.
  • Implement feedback management tools: Provide managers access to online tools and templates to streamline the feedback process and facilitate ongoing communication.
How to Measure Success:
  • Track completion rates of performance reviews. Consistent completion rates indicate that managers are prioritizing performance conversations.
  • Assess employee sentiment towards feedback methods. Hold focus groups to understand how employees perceive the feedback they receive.

Communication and Conflict Resolution

Strong communication skills are a cornerstone of effective leadership. When managers can clearly articulate expectations, actively listen to concerns, and foster open team communication, trust flourishes, and collaboration thrives. Manager development goals in this area focus on developing managers’ communication and conflict resolution skills. Why it Matters:  Clear and transparent communication builds trust and psychological safety within teams. Furthermore, effective conflict resolution skills ensure that disagreements are addressed constructively. Development Opportunities:
  • Conflict resolution training: Equip managers with strategies for mediating conflict, facilitating productive discussions, and finding solutions that work for all parties involved.
  • Team-building exercises: Activities encouraging collaboration and communication can help build trust and improve team dynamics.
How to Measure Success:
  • Observe team dynamics during meetings. Are team members engaged, actively participating, and comfortable expressing their ideas?
  • Track resolution rates of conflicts. A decrease in unresolved conflicts indicates that managers are effectively addressing team issues.

Building and Leading High-Performing Teams

A high-performing team is more than just a collection of talented individuals. It’s a cohesive unit where members seamlessly work together towards a shared goal. The manager development goals in this area focus on equipping managers with the skills to build and lead such teams. Why it Matters: When managers cultivate a positive and productive team environment that fosters collaboration, leverages diverse strengths, and celebrates success, they unlock their team’s collective potential, leading to superior results. Development Opportunities:
  • Training on diversity and inclusion: Equip managers with the knowledge and skills to build inclusive teams where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.
  • Recognition and reward programs: Implement programs that acknowledge and celebrate individual and team achievements to boost morale and motivate high performance.
How to Measure Success:
  • Track team performance metrics relevant to your industry. Are key metrics improving over time, indicating a more effective team?
  • Conduct team climate surveys. These surveys can provide insights into employee perceptions of leadership, teamwork, and overall team dynamics.
Focusing on these core manager development goals can empower your managers to become effective coaches and development partners for their teams.

Additional Considerations for Manager Development Goals

We’ve explored some core manager development goals that can equip your managers with the tools they need to become effective leaders. But before you hit the ground running, let’s delve into some additional considerations to ensure your manager development goals deliver maximum impact:

1. Alignment is Key

Imagine crafting a meticulously designed development program for your managers, only to realize it doesn’t align with your organization’s overall goals. This misalignment can lead to wasted resources and a confused leadership team. When MDGs are aligned with strategic goals, managers develop the skills and knowledge they need to contribute directly to the organization’s success. This creates a unified front where everyone is working towards the same vision.

2. Data-Driven Decisions

Imagine improving your golf swing without knowing your weaknesses. It wouldn’t be very effective, would it? The same applies to manager development. To make informed decisions about MDGs, conduct needs assessments to identify areas for improvement across your management team. By using data to identify skill gaps, you can tailor your MDGs to address your managers’ most pressing needs. This ensures your development efforts are targeted and yield the most significant results.

3. Individualized Impact

A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works in L&D, and manager development is no exception. When crafting their MDGs, Consider each manager’s unique strengths, weaknesses, and career aspirations. Personalized goals resonate more deeply with managers and foster a sense of ownership over their development journey. When goals are aligned with individual aspirations, managers are more likely to be engaged and motivated to achieve them. By incorporating these additional considerations, you can ensure your manager development goals are well-defined, strategically aligned, data-driven, and personalized. 

Progressing and Measuring Manager Development Success

So, you’ve established a solid foundation with well-defined manager development goals. It’s time to translate those goals into action and measure their impact. Here are vital steps to ensure your MDG program thrives:
  • Develop a Training and Development Plan:  Craft a roadmap for each manager, incorporating targeted training programs, personalized coaching sessions, and mentorship opportunities to achieve their goals.
  • Provide Ongoing Feedback and Support:  Regularly assess progress through check-ins, offer constructive feedback, and provide resources and support to help managers overcome challenges on their development journey.
  • Utilize Performance Management Systems: Integrate MDGs into performance reviews. This will create accountability and allow you to track progress throughout the year.
  • Measure Impact on Business Outcomes:  The true test lies in the results measured by the right training effectiveness metrics. Look for measurable improvements in team performance, employee engagement, and overall business success – a testament to the effectiveness of your MDG program.
Following these steps can transform your MDGs from a strategic plan to a powerful driver of leadership growth and organizational success. 

Conclusion

Effective leadership is paramount; by setting and achieving clear manager development goals, you equip your managers with the skills they need to become successful coaches, foster high-performing teams, and drive positive business outcomes. This translates to a win-win situation: managers gain valuable knowledge and growth opportunities while organizations experience increased employee engagement, improved performance, and a stronger leadership pipeline for the future. So, L&D professionals, take action!

Suprabha Sharma

Suprabha, a versatile professional who blends expertise in human resources and psychology, bridges the divide between people management and personal growth with her novel perspectives at Risely. Her experience as a human resource professional has empowered her to visualize practical solutions for frequent managerial challenges that form the pivot of her writings.

Test your communication skills now to become an effective collaborator with teams

Get detailed insights delivered straight to your inbox in just a few minutes.

Start Now

How To Build A Learning Culture At Work?

How To Build A Learning Culture At Work?

Go back to the beginning of your career. Fresh out of college and looking at the prospect of your new fancy job – what was on your mind? “Learning a lot” is a popular answer. And over the years, things have not quite changed; it’s still about learning and growth, with greater importance on the former as the speed of changes and advancements has increased rapidly.  Josh Bersin and LinkedIn teamed up to understand how much learning matters at work; unsurprisingly, they noted – 
  • the opportunity to learn and grow is the second most inspiring thing about the job 
  • the lack of opportunity to learn and grow is the foremost reason to leave a job 
It is bound to happen as learning is closely tied to professional growth. Moreover, a rapidly evolving world creates redundancies and demands for new skills. To keep up, you need to learn constantly, even by stealing time from your full-time job. It’s about more than just the employees who are seeking more; organizations that are not learning are losing their competitive edge with older methods and ideas. Learning as an organizational initiative has never been more pertinent and misunderstood at once. In between this chaos comes the cultural element – does your organization have a learning culture? One that enables rather than punishes. 
Table of Contents

What is a learning culture?

A learning culture helps you thrive, not just survive, at your job. Think of a learning culture as one where everything is designed to enable growth and learning opportunities for employees instead of treating them like hurdles on the way to productivity. As a result, the average day in a learning culture looks quite like this:  You attend a stand-up call that focuses on the tasks and challenges of the day. Your colleague shares where they are stuck, another update about their progress, and the new skill they are learning. During a coffee break, you tell your team member about a solution you thought of. They listen, help you fine-tune it, and help you apply it when you encounter the following problem. The day is going on, and you are stuck. There’s no way out, but your manager shows up and offers a solution. They also ask if you want to add something to the process. At lunch, there’s a session that mixes good food with interesting ideas. This week’s lunch and learn features an expert, and you can ask them about the latest happenings in your field. As the day closes, you have a list of books suggested by your peers and a course your manager recommends. Your company even pays for it! You are excited to know more. Does that sound good? That’s what a learning culture looks like in action. To sum up, let’s see the key features of a learning culture in an organization.

Creating a learning culture: Key ingredients

  • First, a learning culture embraces a growth mindset that recognizes the value and opportunity of learning at every opportunity. It allows managers and team members to approach limitations as opportunities instead of roadblocks. As we saw in the example above, there are constant and omnipresent reinforcements toward learning, whether innovative ways of doing things or risk appetite.
  • Second come the resources and tangible ideas, such as books and lunch-and-learn sessions. These can take many forms depending on what your team needs—the key is finding something that creates value for them.
  • Third, as noted above, many opportunities are informal and created in situations that are not actively planned. It happens when learning becomes second nature to everyone. The effort is not just for L&D or the senior leadership; it’s a community effort for everyone.

Why is a learning culture important?

Although it sounds good as a concept, why should you invest in building a learning culture in your organization? Primarily, the reasons why a learning culture matters include: 
  • Helps you retain good talent: Opportunities to learn and grow are top priorities in employee surveys. They are also critical determinants of your employees’ long-term growth and success. Moreover, learning and development can positively impact your employees’ self-esteem and safety, enabling them to work more stress-free.
  • Learning culture leads to a more developed workforce: When learning is a way of life, your people are bound to be on top of their game with constant updates and ideas from the world. Learning is reinforced through regular interactions as an aspect of your organizational culture. Consequently, you can keep innovating and getting better than your competitors.
  • Builds resilience and agility: The skills determining success today differ from a decade ago. Organizations that understood trends and moved with them could capture the market and get more done even when things kept changing. Constant learning makes your team resilient to changes and keeps your processes agile.
  • Improves business outcomes: Learning helps you advance and remain ahead of others, thus providing a competitive edge to realize strategic objectives rapidly. For L&D leaders, a culture that consistently reinforces this critical area of success is the most significant enabler.
OtherInterestingReads

What if my organization does not have a learning culture?

Let’s flip the table on the example we saw earlier: what would your day be like without a learning culture?
  • The morning huddles don’t really talk about challenges anymore, let alone overcoming them. The team does not share tips and tricks across the board. You are as stuck and confused as you were before the meeting, with some humiliation to accompany.
  • At coffee chats and lunch breaks, you are talking about the new employee improvement program that you need to sit through. It’s boring, and it’s been the same since the two years you joined.
  • You are thinking of your next job while leaving; there is no list of ideas or resources to consider on your way out. Plus, you might be wondering how much you need to pay for upskilling.
That sounds like a recipe for disaster. As we saw here, an employee improvement program is in place, too. The leadership does have development on its mind but cannot get it quite right without solid planning and culture to provide consistent reinforcements to those plans.

How does culture affect learning?

Culture gets your mind set on what you need to do. Think of it this way: your team has a list of resources available, and they are great. You encourage everyone to take those courses and even ask them for updates and experiences. But there’s hardly any response. Wonder why? Because they did not see their managers or peers do it, this was a little important in the bigger picture. Suppose someone even opened it to audit, another colleague’s passing remark, “Huh? Who does that?” would ensure that the tab closes soon enough. Putting learning on the minds of your employees is not just about setting the resources in front of them. Instead, you need to get them going. Social expectations and norms are critical in determining what people do, as the seminal Hawthrone studies noted. Moreover, learning methods could be inaccessible, and you would not know until there is an active discourse on the matter. Challenges like special learning needs and different learning styles and practices clarify only after active use. Similarly, learners may need better teaching methods, a different set of resources, and more opportunities to apply things – all discovered during feedback and one-on-one meetings focusing on these issues. Culture, thus, becomes a significant reinforcer of your tangible moves. At times, it is the most important determining factor for your success, as noted in this study on leadership development initiatives, which showed that the direct involvement of senior leadership and their focus positively impacts retention and change!

Signs that your team needs a learning culture

A culture is hard to diagnose, so how do you notice what changes are needed? Let’s look at some signs of the absence of a learning culture: 
  • Your team members hardly raise questions about new things; there’s little talk about what they are learning. 
  • Your team sticks to tried and tested ways of doing things; innovation and risk are missing. 
  • You may not have a learning budget, or it is severely restricted, or the employees do not know about it. 
  • Mistakes often become conflicts instead of opportunities to review and learn something new. Managers punish mistakes rather than encouraging a solution-oriented mindset.
  • Employees are not engaged and active at work. Your team sees high turnover and routine processes. Feedback is limited in terms of good or bad performance and not extended to the next steps.

How can you build a learning culture as an L&D manager?

When we talk of culture, we assume it’s about the simpler things—like how someone is speaking or their review of the latest skill-building session and how positive it is. We frequently miss the fact that culture also has complex and tangible aspects.  Bersin and LinkedIn’s research listed over 100 areas that contribute to culture. Some of these, like development plans and strategies, are easily assumed to be outside the area. That’s where the fun is: you are making culture unknowingly so far. A culture considers your methods, reactions, and processes that keep the organization going. While setting these up effectively, you will see the former aspects as a consequence – by being intentional about where we want to take our teams as L&D managers.  Hence, when discussing building a learning culture in your team, we are thinking holistically – what can you change, and what results should you expect? Let’s unravel a few key ideas:

Create informal instances of learning 

First up, break the silos and systems that keep learning obscured. Your team wants the opportunities, but often at their own pace. Allowing employees to participate in defining their responsibilities and keeping the decision processes open to them helps empower them as substantial members of the team. It also ensures that they trust the system and own bits of it, thus being willing contributors and participants.  Moreover, learning shared over informal instances, such as cross-functional teams and lunch breaks, is a great way to collaborate and share ideas. It is even better that once the cycle is on, it reinforces itself further as team members add information, insights, and feedback. The best part is a community that learns from each other without thinking of limitations. 

Focus on continuous learning instead of one-stop shops 

It’s a no-brainer at this point that teams no longer appreciate the full-fledged workshop on the most important skill of their lives, which will throw them behind by two days with little retention or remedy for their issues. Then the question becomes, what do they really want? Most often, professionals seek learning in the flow of work, learning that does not disrupt their lives, be it professional or personal.  Second, they are looking for learning that they can apply at work and have the chance to do so. Many participants are dissatisfied with L&D initiatives because the knowledge is often not applicable or provided at the right time. Your team needs learning that suits their needs, be it the schedule, the type, or the purpose – keep the employee at the center of it all. 

Notice and give feedback 

Let’s go back to school. What did we love most after getting something right? A bit of appreciation, right? The principle stays the same as the years pass. Team members need appreciation and encouragement to keep going in the right direction. When you are designing learning experiences, incorporate two-way feedback mechanisms, too.  Moreover, reinforcements should be provided throughout the program in various ways. This can include recognizing someone for solving a problem independently or offering praise during a one-on-one meeting. In the end, it’s about seeing the effort and acknowledging it.  Feedback is not just a manager’s job, so don’t fill their calendars with review meetings for everyone they see. Instead, think of feedback as an ongoing and shared exercise. Along with reviews, encourage employees to give feedback to peers and show intentional action accordingly.

Encourage risks and errors

What stops us from trying new things? Often, it’s the fear of failure that we can blame. The fear of not getting things right in the first place is a huge hurdle. As learning managers, it becomes imperative to help our team members overcome this. Thus, consider how your workplace and leaders react to bad news and mistakes.  A leader’s openness to lousy news is featured in Bersin’s 40 features of a learning culture, thus making it a must-have for your team, too. When leaders are willing to hear what went wrong without losing it, the team can relax and be honest about their situations. All the heads can come together and solve issues. This reinforces employee empowerment and builds loyalty for the leadership team, too.  Similarly, mistakes and risks need to be encouraged among the team members. Let them have the space to apply what they figured out. Team members thrive in a psychologically safe environment. So think reflection, not punishment, when something goes wrong the next time.

Build an employee-centric community  

What makes you trust someone and relax? Knowing them well, right? The same goes for your team. Visible openness and honesty in processes and outcomes are essential to ensuring that they place trust in you and your abilities.  One way of doing this is building context around your activities by regularly sharing stories from the organization that help employees connect with the “why.” Similarly, when leaders and managers show up for training sessions, it is an added boost because team members see them valuing the initiative. This establishes the importance and value of learning at work and thinking of it as more than just a chore that needs to be done.  Keeping the employee at the pivot and developing ideas around them—like career development plans, project leadership, and taking opinions in strategizing—makes their role very tangible. 

To sum up

As we embark on this journey together, let us remember that building a learning culture is not just about ticking off boxes or implementing initiatives—it’s about igniting a passion for learning, inspiring curiosity, and nurturing a spirit of innovation. It’s about creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, empowered, and supported in their quest for knowledge. So let us dare to dream, explore, and learn, for in the journey of learning lies the promise of a brighter, more resilient future for us all.

Deeksha Sharma

Deeksha, with a solid educational background in human resources, bridges the gap between your goals and you with valuable insights and strategies within leadership development. Her unique perspectives, powered by voracious reading, lead to thoughtful pieces that tie conventional know-how and innovative approaches together to enable success for management professionals.

How strong are your communication skills?

Communication creates a culture. Are you ready to ace this task? Find out with a free assessment now.

Start Now

How To Create Purpose At Work For Your Employees?

How To Create Purpose At Work For Your Employees?

Why is purpose at work important in the modern workplace? Picture this: You stroll into the office, a spring in your step, humming your favorite tune, ready to tackle the day’s challenges. You know why you’re here beyond the simple pursuit of a paycheck. You have a sense of direction, a connection to something greater than yourself. It’s as if you’ve found your very own magic wand capable of casting spells of inspiration and fulfillment. But hold on a moment! Before we dive deeper into the why and how of purpose at work, let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room. We’re all aware that work can sometimes feel trapped in a never-ending “Whack-a-Mole,” where you’re constantly swatting away mundane tasks and dealing with office politics. Trust me, we’ve all been there. But here’s the catch: the purpose is not a one-time revelation that forever banishes the Sunday evening blues. It’s a constant journey of exploration, growth, and adaptation. Just like a skilled wizard constantly hones their craft, you, too, must nurture your purpose, aligning it with the ever-changing work landscape. In this blog, we will explore the importance of purpose at work, the role of leadership in cultivating purpose, practical steps to establish a purpose-driven culture, and strategies for overcoming challenges in maintaining purpose at work.
Table of Contents

What is Purpose in the Workplace?

Purpose can be defined as the reason that propels individuals to find meaning and fulfillment in their work. It goes beyond simply completing tasks and earning a paycheck. The purpose is about having a greater sense of direction and connection to something bigger than oneself. It provides employees with a sense of meaning, passion, and drive, enabling them to fully engage with their work and contribute to the success of the organization. Purpose is not just a nice-to-have; it is a fundamental aspect of employee well-being and performance.

What does a lack of purpose at work look like?

Lack of purpose at work can take many forms. From mismatched work to bored employees, here are some tell-tale signs of lack of purpose at work that every manager should note and act upon: 
  • Low engagement and interest in what’s happening around 
  • Falling performance and productivity 
  • Creativity, innovation, and risk-taking attitude are missing 
  • Isolation and withdrawal, frustration and negative attitude 
  • Not implementing feedback, absenteeism
  • Signs of stress and physical impact of meaninglessness

Why is your team stuck purposeless?

A lack of purpose at work can be due to many reasons, but to list the primary ones, we can consider the following:
  • A misalignment between an individual’s values and goals and that of the organization 
  • Lack of clarity from the seniors and managers about the direction of the organization 
  • Work that turns boring quickly due to monotony, micromanagement, or heavily siloed teams 
  • Lack of opportunities to connect or grow 
  • Rapid changes that are not explained to the team

Why should you care about purpose at work?

In a shocking revelation, McKinsey shares that 2 out of 3 employees in the United States reconsidered their jobs as the pandemic hit. The cause – a purpose, or the lack of it. Before you think that purpose is a very personal matter. Let’s clarify: while purpose is personal, what job we do impacts it heavily.
70% of employees surveyed by McKinsey agreed that they define their purpose around work.
Moreover, as we move toward the frontline workers and away from the managers, another stark contrast is revealed: about 85% of frontline workers are unsure or strongly disagree that they can derive purpose from their work. For you, it means that your team is likely to need a sense of purpose for fulfilment much more than you feel the need in your case. The purpose at work plays a crucial role in employee motivation and engagement, too. The survey revealed that those with little purpose being met at work rated lower in terms of satisfaction and performance, too. When employees have a clear sense of purpose, their work becomes more than just a means to a pay check. Overall, creating a purpose at work helps you:
  • Create personal attachment to work: Work becomes a meaningful endeavor that aligns with their personal values and aspirations. As a result, employees start working with intrinsic motivation, which is the internal drive to perform a task for its own sake rather than for external rewards. 
  •  Build passion and ownership: When employees are intrinsically motivated, they are more likely to be passionate, dedicated, and committed to their work. They go above and beyond, putting in extra effort and taking initiative to achieve shared goals.
  •  Promote the team objectives: Purpose provides employees with a sense of direction and meaning in their work. It helps them understand how their contributions fit into the larger picture and how they are making a positive impact.
  •  Enhance job satisfaction: Purposeful work enhances employee well-being and resilience. When employees have a sense of purpose, they are more likely to experience greater job satisfaction, lower stress levels, and better mental health. The stronger sense of direction and focus allows them to navigate challenges and setbacks more effectively.
OtherInterestingReads

How can leaders create purpose at work?

Leadership plays a critical role in cultivating purpose within an organization. As individuals in leadership positions, it is our responsibility to set the tone, communicate the organizational purpose, and embody the purpose ourselves. But there’s more to it.

Start at the top 

As leaders or managers, the first thing that we can do quite well is define and deliberate on the purpose of our organization or team. If you are confused, here’s a place to start with these five questions: Answering these five questions will help you clarify the purpose of your team. This is where everything roots from, and that’s where every individual feels connected in a shared effort. As a manager, take up initiatives and think about purpose along with your team. While doing so, McKinsey points to a relevant bit: it’s not just about using purpose as a talking point and sending fancy emails about it; you really need to get down and see how it’s working. Think about how the purpose defines you each day, and if you see a gap, start acting. In addition to communication, leaders should embody purpose themselves. They should align their actions and decisions with the purpose, leading by example. When employees see their leaders living the purpose, it inspires them to do the same.

Creating alignment between company goals and individual aspirations

Employees are more likely to find meaning in their work when they see a clear connection between their own goals and the goals of the organization. To do this, the employees first need to know and see the purpose of the work in action.  Here, you can step in as the manager and start talking about culture regularly, give them opportunities to discuss how the team’s purpose is impacting and reflect on those ideas. As per McKinsey, chances like these enable employees to find and fulfill their purpose at work 3x more!  Next up, leaders should work with each team member to align their individual goals and priorities with the company’s overall purpose. This alignment ensures that individuals understand the impact of their work on the organization’s mission. Regularly connecting individual goals to the organizational purpose emphasizes how their contributions are integral to achieving the shared vision.

Establish a Purpose-Driven Culture

Establishing a purpose-driven culture requires practical steps that foster a work environment where employees feel motivated, engaged, and connected to the organization’s purpose. First, organizations should foster a supportive and inclusive work environment. This involves promoting open communication, collaboration, and respect among employees. It also means providing opportunities for employees to contribute their unique skills and perspectives. Second, organizations should encourage autonomy and provide growth opportunities for employees. Empowering employees to make decisions and giving them the freedom to explore innovative ideas enhances their sense of purpose and ownership in their work. Providing opportunities for personal and professional growth helps employees align their individual aspirations with the organization’s purpose. Lastly, organizations should recognize and celebrate purposeful achievements. Acknowledging employees’ contributions reinforces the importance of purpose and motivates others to align their work with the organization’s mission. Celebrating success creates a positive and energizing work environment that fosters purpose and engagement.

How to help employees uncover their personal purpose at work?

There are various tools and exercises that managers can use to help employees uncover their personal purpose. These tools and exercises provide employees with the opportunity to reflect on their values, passions, and aspirations, enabling them to align their personal purpose with their professional roles. Here are some ideas you can use to help your team find purpose at work:
  • Personal vision exercises: Encourage employees to create a personal vision statement that reflects their values, goals, and aspirations.
  • Strengths assessments: Provide employees with assessments that help them identify their unique strengths and talents, like Risely’s people management skill assessments.
  • Mentoring programs: Pair employees with mentors who can guide them in exploring their personal purpose and professional growth.
  • Goal-setting workshops: Facilitate workshops that help employees set meaningful goals aligned with their personal purpose.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, fostering a sense of purpose at work is pivotal for employee motivation and engagement. It significantly influences job satisfaction, performance, and overall well-being. Effective leadership plays a crucial role in cultivating a purpose-driven culture by aligning company goals with individual aspirations. Encouraging autonomy, growth opportunities, and meaningful tasks can further enhance employee engagement. By recognizing and celebrating purposeful achievements, organizations can bolster their workforce’s morale and productivity. Embracing a supportive and inclusive environment where personal purposes are integrated into professional roles can lead to a more fulfilling and successful workplace for all.

Deeksha Sharma

Deeksha, with a solid educational background in human resources, bridges the gap between your goals and you with valuable insights and strategies within leadership development. Her unique perspectives, powered by voracious reading, lead to thoughtful pieces that tie conventional know-how and innovative approaches together to enable success for management professionals.

Struggling with purpose? Embrace a growth mindset.

Grab a free copy of Risely’s growth mindset toolkit for managers and leaders today to get started.

Start Now

How To Set Boundaries At Work? Guide For Managers?

How To Set Boundaries At Work? Guide For Managers

Have you ever found yourself answering mail late at night or bent over the desk long after work hours are over? If yes, there is a good chance that you have overextended or even crossed boundaries between your personal and professional lives. As the world adjusted to a global pandemic, employees’ need for better boundary management became even more apparent: the work hours often spilled into non-work ones.  Research suggests this creates a role between our work and at home, leading to higher stress and emotional turmoil. One way to break this rut is to set boundaries at work. Boundaries mean clearly defining what is acceptable and what is not regarding work expectations, communication, and personal time.  In this blog, we will discuss the impact of undefined boundaries on productivity and well-being, the need for boundaries at work, and how to recognize signs of poor boundary management. We will also provide examples of common workplace boundary challenges and strategies for preparing to set boundaries at work effectively. Finally, we will guide you through a step-by-step process for establishing boundaries, explore different types of boundaries at work managers should consider, and offer tips for maintaining boundaries without alienating your team members. So, let’s begin our journey to creating a healthier work environment!
Table of Contents

What do boundaries in workplaces look like?

Picture this: There’s a manager, let’s call her Sarah, who loves protecting her and her team’s peace. She has defined a few things before starting work: she loves spending time with her family and not answering calls during it. Conversely, she avoids contacting her team outside specific hours.  Similarly, while taking up tasks from her seniors, she considers the bandwidth of her team and takes up only a realistically achievable amount of work. It doesn’t mean not striving for greatness, but it saves her from micromanaging her team to the edge of burnout. Do you see what key idea is at play here? Boundaries. Boundaries at work refer to the limits or guidelines that you can establish to protect your physical, emotional, and mental well-being while maintaining professionalism and productivity in the workplace. These boundaries help employees maintain a healthy work-life balance, manage expectations, and navigate interpersonal situations effectively.  Boundaries at work can be about multiple areas, you might declare your personal chat box unreachable for professional matters, or you can set forth that you will not respond to work emails outside hours. In all the forms, boundaries are a tool to obtain manager effectiveness when they are used well. 

What types of boundaries should managers consider?

As a manager, it is important to consider different types of boundaries to promote a healthy and productive work environment. Here are a few examples of boundaries at work you should consider:
Professional Boundaries
  • Not discussing situations and issues that involve private and confidential matters
  • Not participating in a decision where you have a personal stake
  • Upholding the ethical standards and values set forth by your organization
  • Taking up a realistic task load
Emotional and Mental Health Boundaries
  • Prioritize personal care by setting aside time for hobbies and self-care activities
  • Demonstrate support and empathy for employee’s situations without getting overtly involved or emotionally attached
  • Support employees’ mental health by empowering them to advocate for their own needs and boundaries
Personal and Physical Boundaries
  • Respecting personal space, such as preferring handshakes over hugs
  • Keeping interactions strictly professional by avoiding inappropriate contact
  • Staying balanced in relationships by avoiding personal friendships and relations that can lead to conflict of interest

What if I do not have boundaries at work?

Does this seem excessive and unnecessary? Let’s see what happens when we do not set boundaries with the help of another manager. Let’s call him John.  John is a team manager who wants to get things done and often forgets there are limits. Hence, when you meet John after work, he’s still thinking of work, probably with a task list open on his mobile device, while simultaneously texting his team for updates. The next morning begins with similar abruptness for John because the team is ready with questions about their last night’s work. Tired and frustrated, John becomes quite aggressive in his responses and leaves the employees even more confused and clueless about the way ahead.

Signs you don’t have boundaries in the workplace

In John’s case, we notice several signs of missing boundaries at work: 
  • Resentment toward work or team members that’s always chasing you
  • Regularly being at work even after the hours are over 
  • Overstepping in emotional areas and unhealthy communication patterns 
  • Excessive anxiety about updates
  • Burnout, constant tiredness, and decreased performance 
The result is obvious from these lines.

What happens when you do not create workplace boundaries? 

First, as we see in the case of John, we are never off work. Even outside, it feels like we are near our work, and our identity and self-esteem become deeply tied to those neat checklists of our dreams. As a result, a person without workplace boundaries tends to overwork to the brink of exhaustion. Exhaustion brings together its own set of health and emotional issues for one to deal with. Second, not having boundaries in place as a manager creates several second-order challenges. As we see in John’s story, his team starts emulating his behavior. The unhealthy patterns of overworking, excessively sharing updates, and constant check-ins trickle down to the entire team. John’s aggressive remarks further add to the mess by setting up an example of unhealthy coping mechanisms and badly dealing with vulnerability. Third, there are many social and emotional ramifications to handle that do not directly concern work. For instance, a person without boundaries for their availability at work is not able to connect and engage with their friends and family fully. Their role of an employee consistently overpowers any other, throwing work-life balance out for a toss. 

Is there a bad way to set boundaries at work?

Of course! As with everything else, boundaries can be a tool to take a team downhill when they are not set properly. This is especially a concern for managers because if you are sitting too far away from glass walls, your team might not be able to alarm you about the impending danger at all. Imagine you have set strict boundaries around your availability and communication, stating you are only accessible during specific hours. However, this becomes an excuse to avoid responding to urgent requests or participating in important meetings, even when your presence is necessary for team collaboration or problem-solving. On the other hand, this can be a frustrating experience to bear from the side of a team member, too. For instance, what if a team member establishes clear task boundaries, stating they will only handle specific assignments within their job description? However, they consistently refuse to take on additional tasks or assist colleagues, citing their boundaries as a reason to avoid responsibility and workload. Similarly, many such concerns can arise around the misuse of boundaries at work by employees if they are not constructed and understood properly.
OtherInterestingReads

A step-by-step guide to establishing boundaries at work

Establishing boundaries in the workplace requires a thoughtful and step-by-step approach. Here is how you can effectively set boundaries:

Preparing to set boundaries: What managers need at step 0

Before implementing boundaries in the workplace, managers need to take specific steps to ensure they are prepared. Here are a few key things managers need to consider:
  • Self-assessment: First, managers should reflect on their own boundaries at work and identify areas where they may need to set or reinforce boundaries. Self-awareness is crucial in effectively communicating and implementing boundaries. Reflection questions and feedback from your team and peers can be helpful in identifying the areas that you do not wish to negotiate.
  • Communication strategies: Managers should develop effective communication strategies to clearly communicate boundaries to their team members. This involves setting expectations, providing examples, and engaging in open and transparent discussions about what boundaries are and how they can help. While taking up this step, take charge and set an example for your team to enable their healthy boundaries at work, too. Focus on setting expectations correctly and effectively, sharing how boundaries and accountability should be balanced.

Step 1: Define Your Boundaries Clearly

The first step in establishing boundaries at work is to define them clearly. Take the time to reflect on your personal limits and priorities. Consider what is important to you in terms of work-life balance and well-being. This will help you identify specific areas where you need to set boundaries. For example, you may decide to set boundaries around your work hours by clearly defining the times when you will be fully dedicated to work and the times when you will prioritize your personal time. This may involve setting specific start and end times for your workday or designating certain days as personal time, like this:

“I am available for work-related calls and messages from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Outside of these hours, please refrain from contacting me unless it’s an emergency. I will respond to non-urgent messages during my next working hours.”

Avoid being vague as follows:

“Feel free to contact me whenever you need assistance or have questions. I’m always available to help.”

By defining your boundaries clearly, you set the foundation for effectively communicating and implementing them in the workplace. This step is essential for creating a healthier work-life balance and protecting your well-being.

Step 2: Communicate Your Boundaries Effectively

Once you have defined your boundaries at work, the next step is to communicate them effectively to your team members and colleagues. Clear and direct communication is crucial to ensure that your boundaries are understood and respected. Start by communicating your boundaries to your direct reports or team members. Clearly express your expectations and provide specific examples to illustrate what is and isn’t acceptable in terms of work-related tasks, communication, and personal time. This helps create a shared understanding and sets the stage for a healthier work environment like in the message shared below.

“Team, I want to ensure we maintain a healthy work-life balance while also staying productive. From now on, let’s reserve non-urgent communication for our regular working hours, which are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. If you have urgent matters outside of these hours, please feel free to reach out, but otherwise, let’s respect each other’s personal time. Does that sound good to everyone?”

Additionally, communicate your boundaries to your colleagues and other stakeholders. Clearly articulate your limits and expectations for communication, availability, and work-related demands. This helps establish a culture of respect and accountability around boundaries. On the other hand, badly communicated boundaries in the workplace sound like impositions, as we see here:

“Effective immediately, all non-urgent communication should be limited to working hours. Urgent matters can be addressed outside of these hours. Thanks.”

The direct and impersonal tone of the message provides little scope for communication and context to the others, thus moving away from the key idea of mutual respect and understanding while setting boundaries. Hence, remember to use assertive communication to express your needs and expectations as seen in the first example. Use “I” statements to clearly communicate your perspective and needs without assigning blame or becoming defensive. This approach fosters open and honest communication, which is essential for establishing effective boundaries.

Step 3: Implement and Enforce Boundaries

Implementing and enforcing boundaries at work is a critical step in establishing a healthier work environment. Once you have defined and communicated your boundaries, it’s important to consistently enforce them. Lead by example and set a personal example for your team members and colleagues. Demonstrate your commitment to your boundaries by consistently adhering to them. This sends a powerful message and encourages others to respect your boundaries, as we can see here:

“I appreciate your dedication, but I’ve noticed you’ve been reaching out after hours for non-urgent matters. As we discussed, let’s try to keep non-urgent communication within our working hours to respect everyone’s personal time. If it’s urgent, feel free to contact me anytime. Let’s work together to maintain a healthy balance.”

Be firm but respectful when addressing boundary violations. If someone encroaches upon your boundaries at work, assertively remind them of your expectations and express the impact their actions have on your well-being or productivity. But while you are at it. Ensure that your tone is not harsh or reprimanding someone. Think of things from their perspective too and help them understand yours instead of reacting like this:

“I’ve told you all repeatedly not to contact me outside of working hours for anything that’s not an emergency. Can’t you follow simple instructions? This behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

Moreover, you can seek support from your supervisor or HR team if necessary. If you encounter persistent boundary violations or face challenges in enforcing your boundaries in the workplace, reach out to the appropriate channels for guidance and support. They can provide additional resources and assistance in addressing any issues that may arise. Remember that enforcing boundaries is a continuous process. Stay vigilant and consistently reinforce your boundaries to maintain a healthy work environment and protect your well-being.

Step 4: Handling Pushback and Disagreements

When setting boundaries at work, it is common to encounter pushback or disagreements. It’s important to handle these situations calmly and assertively to maintain the integrity of your boundaries and promote a respectful work environment. Anticipate and prepare for pushback or disagreements when setting boundaries. Be ready to explain the rationale behind your boundaries and how they contribute to your well-being and productivity. This can help others understand the importance of respecting your boundaries. For instance, if someone shares frustration at your communication boundaries at work, you can address it as follows:

“I understand your concerns, and I appreciate your feedback. Let’s discuss how we can adjust our communication practices to better support everyone’s needs. Perhaps we can explore setting aside dedicated times for more focused work and communication blocks for collaborative discussions. What do you think?”

Offer alternative solutions or compromises when appropriate. Flexibility and understanding can help address concerns and find a middle ground. However, it’s important to maintain the integrity of your boundaries and not compromise your well-being or values. When faced with pushback or disagreements, stay calm and assertive. Clearly and respectfully restate your boundaries, reminding others of your expectations and the impact their actions have on your well-being or productivity. Avoid becoming defensive or engaging in arguments as seen here:

“I’ve made my decision, and that’s final. It’s not up for discussion. Follow the rules or face the consequences.”

Remember that handling pushback and disagreements is part of the boundary-setting process. By addressing these challenges assertively and respectfully, you establish a culture of respect and accountability around boundaries in the workplace.

Step 5: Regularly Review and Adjust Boundaries

Regularly review your boundaries at work to assess their effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments. Consider factors such as your workload, personal commitments, and overall well-being when evaluating your boundaries. Be open to adjusting your boundaries as circumstances change. Workload fluctuations, personal obligations, and other factors may require you to modify your boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Flexibility is key in ensuring that your boundaries continue to serve you well. For instance, you can take up this discussion with your team like:

“I’ve noticed some challenges with our current communication boundaries, particularly with project collaboration. Let’s brainstorm together and see if there are any adjustments we can make to better support our workflow and productivity. Does anyone have any suggestions or concerns?”

This shows proactive leadership and values feedback from your team members and colleagues. Their input can provide great insights into the impact of your boundaries and help identify areas for improvement or adjustment. Transparency and communication are key factors in this review and adjustment, without these, the changes can very quickly turn into diktats like this:

“Effective immediately, we are adjusting our communication boundaries. All non-urgent communication will now be restricted to email only, and response times are expected to be within 24 hours. Thank you for your cooperation.”

Remember that boundaries are not set in stone. They should evolve as your needs and circumstances change. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your boundaries ensures that they remain relevant and supportive of your well-being and productivity.

How to set boundaries at work without distancing yourself?

A common concern among managers while setting boundaries would be that their team might end up being alone on the field. And this obviously happens when the boundaries are badly set and reinforced. If you see boundaries as dynamic tools to get things done and keep reviewing them, you can maintain the delicate balance between healthy relationships at work and workplace boundaries. Maintaining boundaries without alienating your team members is essential for creating a positive work environment. Here are a few strategies to achieve this:
  • Use positive reinforcement: Recognize and acknowledge when your team members respect and adhere to your boundaries. Provide positive feedback and reinforcement to encourage their continued respect for boundaries.
  • Lead by example: Maintain your boundaries and demonstrate the benefits of a healthy work-life balance. By setting a positive example, you inspire your team members to prioritize their well-being and establish their own boundaries.
  • Embrace leadership qualities: Be approachable and supportive as a leader. Encourage open communication and create a culture that values boundaries and well-being. By fostering a positive work environment, you can support your team members while maintaining healthy boundaries.

How can you encourage team members to set their own boundaries?

Encouraging members to set their own boundaries is essential for their personal growth and well-being. Here are some ways to support and empower your team in setting their boundaries: First, focus on creating a safe space where team members feel comfortable expressing their needs and boundaries without fear of judgment or retribution. You can start by taking a lead on the process through flexibility in work schedules, remote work options, and time off. This allows team members to align their work with their personal commitments and priorities. Second, clearly communicate the organization’s expectations regarding work-life balance and the importance of setting boundaries. Encourage team members to prioritize self-care and well-being while remaining the custodian of organizational values and goals. In this process, demonstrate the importance of setting boundaries by setting and respecting your own. Share your experiences and challenges with boundary-setting to inspire and motivate your team. Lastly, sometimes your team members might be conflicted while setting boundaries at work. Offer resources, training, and support to help team members develop the skills necessary to set and maintain boundaries effectively. This can include workshops, coaching, or access to mental health resources. Moreover, acknowledge and celebrate team members who successfully establish and maintain their boundaries. This recognition will encourage others to do the same. By encouraging team members to set their own boundaries, you empower them to prioritize their well-being and achieve a healthy work-life balance. Still confused about workplace boundaries? Have a chat with Risely’s AI coach, Merlin to get rid of all the doubts and questions in your mind. Merlin can help you in three ways: 
  1. Situational discussion: Talk about boundaries and throw all your questions in. What are boundaries? Why should you build them? Is your boundary a good one or a bad one? Let Merlin think about everything that’s confusing you.
  2. Skill development: The boundaries are set, but skills are keeping you stuck. Assess and improve yourself in critical areas like assertive communication and a growth mindset with Merlin.
  3. Role-plays: Is some team members’ potential reaction keeping you away from setting boundaries? Are you dealing with constant violations with no idea how to address them? Play it out with Merlin, who will become your partner and coach in getting such difficult conversations right.
Start now: Free trial with Merlin

Conclusion

Setting boundaries at work is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and fostering a productive environment. By clearly defining and communicating your boundaries, you can prevent burnout, improve well-being, and enhance team dynamics. Remember to regularly review and adjust your boundaries as needed. Use positive reinforcement techniques and lead by example to encourage boundary respect. Navigating difficult conversations around boundaries requires assertive yet respectful communication. Building a supportive ecosystem where everyone’s boundaries are valued is key. Ultimately, prioritizing boundaries benefits both managers and their teams, leading to a more harmonious and efficient workplace.

Deeksha Sharma

Deeksha, with a solid educational background in human resources, bridges the gap between your goals and you with valuable insights and strategies within leadership development. Her unique perspectives, powered by voracious reading, lead to thoughtful pieces that tie conventional know-how and innovative approaches together to enable success for management professionals.

Let’s review your leadership skills real quick!

Check out Risely’s range of leadership skill assessments for free and explore your areas of growth.

Start Now

The Best Assertiveness Coaches To Transform The Way You Interact

The Best Assertiveness Coaches To Transform The Way You Interact

Effective communication is paramount in the dynamic world of business and leadership. Yet, finding the balance between being passive and aggressive can be challenging. Assertiveness offers a powerful middle ground, enabling you to communicate their needs, set boundaries, and drive positive outcomes confidently and respectfully. In this blog, we take you through assertiveness coaching and spotlight some remarkable coaches who empower individuals to develop assertiveness skills. From renowned authors to experienced practitioners, these coaches offer tailored guidance and practical techniques to help entrepreneurs and leaders like you assert themselves confidently in both personal and professional spheres.
Table of Contents

Understanding Assertiveness

Assertiveness is a fundamental skill for entrepreneurs and leaders. It enables you to communicate effectively, set boundaries, and confidently navigate challenging situations. Unlike aggression, which involves imposing one’s will on others, or passivity, which involves avoiding conflict and yielding to others’ demands, assertiveness strikes a balance between standing up for one’s rights and respecting others’ rights. Understanding the importance of assertiveness involves recognizing its role in fostering healthy relationships, promoting collaboration, and enhancing leadership effectiveness. Assertive individuals can better express their needs, opinions, and preferences clearly and respectfully, leading to improved communication, problem-solving, and decision-making in both personal and professional contexts. By developing assertiveness skills, you can create a culture of open communication, mutual respect, and accountability within their organizations, leading to greater trust, engagement, and performance among team members.
Read more: The difference between assertiveness and aggressiveness!
OtherInterestingReads

Benefits of Assertiveness Coaching

Assertiveness coaching offers numerous benefits for managers seeking to enhance their assertiveness skills and leadership effectiveness. One primary advantage is the opportunity for personalized guidance and support. Coaches work closely with you to assess their assertive communication styles, identify areas for improvement, and develop strategies for assertive behavior. Additionally, assertiveness coaching can help new managers overcome common barriers to assertiveness, such as fear of conflict, lack of self-confidence, or difficulty setting boundaries. Coaches provide practical techniques and exercises to help clients build confidence, assertive communication skills, and resilience in facing challenges. Through the coaching process, entrepreneurs and leaders can better understand their communication patterns and interpersonal dynamics. This enables them to navigate difficult conversations, negotiate effectively, and lead authentically and honestly.

Top Assertiveness Coaches

Now, let’s delve into the profiles of the top 10 assertiveness coaches who have earned recognition for their expertise and impact in assertiveness coaching. Each of these coaches brings a unique blend of experience, insights, and methodologies to help you develop assertive communication skills, strengthen relationships, and drive positive change. From renowned authors and speakers to experienced consultants and trainers, these coaches have distinguished themselves through their commitment to excellence and ability to inspire transformational change in their clients’ assertiveness and leadership capabilities.

Amy Morin

Amy Morin is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and bestselling author known for her expertise in mental strength and assertiveness. She has written several books on resilience, self-confidence, and assertiveness, including “13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do” and “13 Things Mentally Strong Women Don’t Do.” Amy Morin offers coaching and workshops to help you build assertiveness, set boundaries, and overcome self-doubt. She draws on her background in psychotherapy and mental strength training to help managers develop assertive communication skills and navigate challenging situations with confidence and resilience.

Patrick King

Patrick King is a social interaction specialist, bestselling author, and coach specializing in assertiveness training, communication skills, and confidence-building. He has written numerous books on communication, persuasion, and personal development, including “Improve Your People Skills” and “The Art of Everyday Assertiveness.” Patrick King offers personalized coaching programs and online courses to help managers assert themselves effectively in various situations. He provides practical strategies and techniques for building assertiveness skills, setting boundaries, and expressing needs and preferences assertively in both personal and professional contexts.

Sharon Martin

Sharon Martin is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and coach specializing in assertiveness training, boundary-setting, and self-empowerment. She is the author of “The CBT Workbook for Perfectionism” and “Setting Boundaries Without Guilt.” Sharon Martin offers individual coaching sessions and online courses to help leaders assert themselves confidently and authentically. She provides practical tools and exercises for developing assertiveness skills, setting boundaries, and communicating effectively in relationships and professional settings.

Dan O’Connor

Dan O’Connor is a communication skills trainer and coach specializing in assertiveness training, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence. He founded Dan O’Connor Training, where he offers online courses, workshops, and coaching sessions on assertive communication and interpersonal skills. Dan O’Connor provides practical strategies and techniques for assertively communicating and handling difficult situations confidently. He offers interactive training programs and coaching sessions to help managers assert themselves effectively in various personal and professional contexts.

Dr. Aziz Gazipura

Dr. Aziz Gazipura is a clinical psychologist, confidence coach, and bestselling author known for his work on assertiveness, social confidence, and self-esteem. He is the author of “Not Nice: Stop People Pleasing, Staying Silent, & Feeling Guilty… And Start Speaking Up, Saying No, Asking Boldly, And Unapologetically Being Yourself.” Dr. Aziz Gazipura offers coaching programs, workshops, and online courses aimed at helping leaders and managers like you develop assertiveness skills, build confidence, and overcome social anxiety. He provides practical tools and strategies for asserting oneself confidently in social situations, setting boundaries, and expressing needs and preferences assertively.

Nina Rubin

Nina Rubin is a life coach and relationship expert specializing in assertiveness training, boundary-setting, and self-empowerment. She founded AfterDefeat, offering coaching services, workshops, and resources for managers seeking to improve their assertiveness and communication skills. Nina Rubin offers personalized coaching sessions and group workshops focused on helping you assert yourself confidently and authentically. She provides practical guidance and support for setting boundaries, communicating assertively in relationships, and achieving personal and professional goals.

Dr. Judith Orloff

Dr. Judith Orloff is a psychiatrist, empath, and bestselling author known for her work in assertiveness, intuition, and emotional wellness. She authorizes several books, including “The Empath’s Survival Guide” and “Emotional Freedom.” Dr. Judith Orloff offers coaching programs, workshops, and online courses to help managers develop assertiveness skills, set boundaries, and communicate effectively in relationships. She provides practical strategies and techniques for asserting oneself confidently while maintaining empathy and compassion for others. Learn more about developing assertive communication skills at work with our detailed guide on assertive communication training for managers.

Assertiveness training books

  • “The Assertiveness Workbook: How to Express Your Ideas and Stand Up for Yourself at Work and in Relationships” by Randy J. Paterson– This workbook provides practical exercises and techniques for developing assertiveness skills in various areas of life, including the workplace. It covers setting boundaries, handling criticism, and negotiating effectively.
  • “Your Perfect Right: Assertiveness and Equality in Your Life and Relationships” by Robert E. Alberti and Michael L. Emmons – This classic guide to assertiveness offers practical advice and strategies for asserting oneself confidently and respectfully in interpersonal relationships, including professional settings. It covers topics such as assertive communication, conflict resolution, and self-esteem.
  • “Assertiveness: How to Stand Up for Yourself and Still Win the Respect of Others” by Judy Murphy– This book provides practical tips and techniques for developing assertiveness skills in the workplace. It offers insights into assertive communication, body language, and overcoming common barriers to assertiveness.
  • “The Assertiveness Guide for Women: How to Communicate Your Needs, Set Healthy Boundaries, and Transform Your Relationships” by Julie de Azevedo Hanks– This book specifically addresses assertiveness issues faced by women in the workplace and offers practical strategies for overcoming challenges and asserting oneself confidently. It covers topics such as assertive communication, self-care, and setting boundaries.
  • “When I Say No, I Feel Guilty” by Manuel J. Smith – This classic self-help book offers you practical techniques for developing assertiveness skills and overcoming guilt and anxiety associated with setting boundaries and saying no. It provides step-by-step guidance for asserting oneself confidently in various situations, including the workplace.

Conclusion

As we conclude our exploration of assertiveness coaching, it’s clear that mastering this skill is indispensable for leaders and managers like you navigating the complexities of today’s business landscape. It is an essential quality that is required to be a great manager for your team and the organization. Through the expertise and support of assertiveness coaches, individuals can unlock their potential to communicate assertively, set boundaries, and foster healthier, more productive relationships. Whether seeking to enhance leadership effectiveness, improve team dynamics, or cultivate a more empowering organizational culture, assertiveness coaching offers invaluable tools for success in the ever-evolving world of business and leadership. If you still feel confused about how and where to start. Risely is your answer. Risely helps by providing you personalized learning journey for skills like assertive communication, active listening, etc that enhance how you perform as a leader in your workplace. It starts with assessing your current skills and then moves on creating a learning plan that is unique to you and your challenges. Take the free 14-day trial and start your journey of leadership development.

Get started on your development journey today!

Master the art of assertive communication by reviewing your skills with a free assessment now.

Start Now

10 Best Strategic Thinking Coaches to Speed Up Your Growth

10 Best Strategic Thinking Coaches to Speed Up Your Growth

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, strategic thinking has become more than just a desirable trait; it’s a critical competency for success. As leaders strive to navigate through uncertainty, competition, and disruption, the ability to think strategically and make informed decisions has emerged as a defining factor in driving organizational growth and resilience. However, mastering strategic thinking can be a challenging feat. It requires a combination of vision, analysis, creativity, and execution—a skill set that can be honed and developed by experienced mentors and coaches. In this blog, we explore the realm of strategic thinking coaching and introduce you to leading experts who specialize in helping individuals and organizations unlock their strategic potential. From renowned professors and authors to seasoned consultants and thought leaders, these strategic thinking coaches bring a wealth of experience, insights, and methodologies. Through personalized guidance, practical frameworks, and proven strategies, entrepreneurs and leaders can think more critically, plan more effectively, and lead with greater confidence in an increasingly complex and uncertain world.
Table of Contents

Understanding Strategic Thinking

Strategic thinking is not just about making plans; it’s about envisioning the future and devising a path to get there. It involves analyzing current affairs, anticipating potential challenges and opportunities, and crafting innovative strategies to achieve long-term goals. Unlike tactical thinking, which focuses on short-term actions and immediate solutions, strategic thinking takes a broader view, considering the bigger picture and the implications of decisions over time. Strategic thinking is essential for navigating the complexities of today’s competitive landscape in business leadership. Leaders who possess strong strategic thinking skills are better equipped to steer their organizations toward success by identifying market trends, foreseeing industry disruptions, and adapting their strategies accordingly. They are visionaries who can inspire and align their teams toward a common purpose, driving innovation and sustainable growth.

Why do you need Strategic Leadership Coaching?

Strategic leadership coaching offers numerous benefits for entrepreneurs and executives seeking to enhance their strategic thinking capabilities. Through one-on-one sessions with a qualified coach, individuals can gain valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses as strategic thinkers. Coaches provide personalized guidance and feedback, helping you identify blind spots and develop strategies to overcome obstacles. Moreover, strategic leadership coaching empowers leaders to adopt a proactive mindset to anticipate future challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. By honing their strategic thinking skills, executives can make more informed decisions, allocate resources effectively, and confidently navigate uncertainty. Additionally, coaching fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth within organizations, positioning them for long-term success in a rapidly evolving business environment. Read more examples here: 8 Strategic Thinking Examples to Help You Succeed
OtherInterestingReads

How to Select a Strategic Thinking Coach?

Choosing the right strategic thinking coach is crucial for maximizing the benefits of coaching. When evaluating potential coaches, entrepreneurs and leaders should consider several key criteria:
  • Experience: Look for a coach with a proven track record of success in strategic leadership development. Ideally, the coach should have experience working with clients in similar industries or contexts.
  • Qualifications: Verify that the coach possesses relevant certifications or credentials in coaching and leadership development. A background in psychology, organizational behavior, or business management can also be advantageous.
  • Approach: Assess the coach’s coaching style and methodologies to ensure compatibility with your learning preferences and goals. Some coaches may employ a more directive approach, while others may focus on facilitating self-discovery and reflection.
  • References: Request references or testimonials from past clients to gauge the coach’s effectiveness and impact. Feedback from others who have worked with the coach can provide valuable insights into their coaching process and outcomes.
  • Alignment: Seek a coach who shares your values and understands your organizational context. A coach who aligns with your vision and objectives will be better equipped to support your growth and development as a strategic leader.
By carefully considering these criteria, entrepreneurs and leaders can select a strategic thinking coach who is well-equipped to help them achieve their goals and aspirations. Follow the link to know more about how Managers can make or break company growth.

Top 10 Strategic Thinking Coaches

Now, let’s delve into the profiles of the top 10 strategic thinking coaches who have earned recognition for their expertise and impact in leadership development. Each of these coaches brings a unique blend of experience, insights, and methodologies to help you unlock their full potential as strategic thinkers. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, these strategic thinking coaches have distinguished themselves through their commitment to excellence and ability to inspire transformational change in their clients.

Dr. Richard Rumelt

Dr. Richard Rumelt is a renowned strategist and author known for his work on strategic management. He is a UCLA Anderson School of Management professor and has advised numerous Fortune 500 companies on strategic issues. Dr. Rumelt’s approach to strategic thinking emphasizes clarity of goals, alignment of resources, and identifying key leverage points. He is known for his book “Good Strategy Bad Strategy,” which outlines the principles of effective strategic thinking.

Dr. Betty Sue Flowers

Dr. Betty Sue Flowers is an executive coach, leadership consultant, and former Lyndon B. Johnson Library and Museum director. She has extensive experience in strategic planning and organizational development and specializes in helping leaders develop a holistic understanding of their organizations and the broader context in which they operate. She encourages you to think creatively and systemically to uncover innovative strategic solutions.

Dr. Roger L. Martin

Dr. Roger L. Martin is a professor and former dean of the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto. He is a leading expert on integrative thinking and has written extensively on strategy. Dr. Martin’s approach to strategic thinking revolves around integrative thinking, which involves synthesizing opposing ideas to generate creative solutions. He encourages leaders to embrace complexity and uncertainty as opportunities for innovation.

Dr. Rita McGrath

Dr. Rita McGrath is a professor at Columbia Business School and a globally recognized expert on strategy and innovation. She is known for her research on strategic inflection points and dynamic competition. Dr. McGrath’s approach to strategic thinking focuses on agility and adaptability in the face of rapid change. She helps leaders anticipate industry shifts, identify emerging opportunities, and pivot their strategies accordingly.

Dr. Gary Hamel

Dr. Gary Hamel is a management consultant, author, and professor at the London Business School. He is a leading proponent of management innovation and has written extensively on strategic renewal. Dr. Hamel’s approach to strategic thinking emphasizes challenging conventional wisdom and embracing disruptive change. He encourages leaders to cultivate a culture of experimentation and continuous learning.

Dr. Vijay Govindarajan

Dr. Vijay Govindarajan is a professor at Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business and a leading expert on strategy and innovation. He is known for his research on reverse innovation and the three-box framework for managing innovation. Dr. Govindarajan’s approach to strategic thinking focuses on balancing today’s business demands with tomorrow’s growth imperatives. He helps leaders develop a systematic approach to innovation and strategic renewal.

Dr. W. Chan Kim & Dr. Renée Mauborgne

Dr. W. Chan Kim and Dr. Renée Mauborgne are professors at INSEAD and co-directors of the INSEAD Blue Ocean Strategy Institute. They are best known for their groundbreaking work on blue ocean strategy, which involves creating uncontested market space. Drs. Kim and Mauborgne’s approach to strategic thinking challenges conventional wisdom about competition and value creation. They help leaders identify untapped market opportunities and develop innovative strategies to capture them.

Dr. Robert S. Kaplan & Dr. David P. Norton

Dr. Robert S. Kaplan and Dr. David P. Norton are professors at Harvard Business School and co-founders of the Balanced Scorecard Institute. They are best known for their work on the balanced scorecard framework for strategic performance management. Drs. Kaplan and Norton emphasize the importance of aligning strategic objectives with key performance indicators. They help leaders develop a comprehensive framework for measuring and managing strategic success.

Dr. Margaret Wheatley

Dr. Margaret Wheatley is a leadership consultant, speaker, and author known for her work on organizational change and systems thinking. She founded the Berkana Institute, a nonprofit organization that fosters leadership for transformational change. Dr. Wheatley’s approach to strategic thinking emphasizes the interconnectedness of individuals, organizations, and systems. She helps leaders cultivate a deeper understanding of complex adaptive systems and develop strategies for fostering resilience and innovation.

Dr. Amy C. Edmondson

Dr. Amy C. Edmondson is a professor at Harvard Business School and a leading expert on team dynamics and organizational learning. She is known for researching psychological safety and its impact on team performance and innovation. Dr. Edmondson’s approach to strategic thinking focuses on creating a culture of psychological safety where you feel comfortable taking risks and challenging the status quo. She helps leaders build high-performing teams capable of adapting to change and driving strategic innovation.

Conclusion 

As we conclude our exploration of strategic thinking coaching, one thing becomes abundantly clear: investing in the development of strategic thinking skills is an investment in your organization’s future success. Whether you’re a seasoned executive looking to sharpen your strategic acumen or an aspiring entrepreneur seeking to chart a course for your venture’s growth, the guidance and support of a strategic thinking coach can make all the difference. Working with one of the ten experts highlighted in this blog or exploring the broader landscape of strategic thinking coaching can help you gain invaluable insights, overcome challenges, and seize opportunities with greater clarity and conviction. Remember, strategic thinking is not just about making plans; it’s about envisioning possibilities, anticipating challenges, and shaping your organization’s future. With the right guidance and mindset, you can elevate your leadership, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable success in today’s dynamic business environment. If you still feel confused about how and where to start. Risely is your answer. Risely helps by providing you personalized learning journey for skills like strategic thinking that enhance how you perform as a leader in your workplace. It starts with assessing your current skills and then moves on creating a learning plan that is unique to you and your challenges. Take the free 14-day trial and start your journey of leadership development.

Aastha Bensla

Aastha, a passionate industrial psychologist, writer, and counselor, brings her unique expertise to Risely. With specialized knowledge in industrial psychology, Aastha offers a fresh perspective on personal and professional development. Her broad experience as an industrial psychologist enables her to accurately understand and solve problems for managers and leaders with an empathetic approach.

Find out how good your strategic thinking skills are?

Start a free strategic thinking assessment for managers and leaders to get valuable insights.

Start Now

How To Build A Teamwork Mentality As A Manager?

How To Build A Teamwork Mentality As A Manager?

What’s the difference between a set of people working together and a team? It’s the mindset. Or the mentality. A teamwork mentality is what keeps people focused on shared goals and pushes them to keep the team’s ambitions above everything else. But, this example of success is more challenging to find than talk about. What can you do about this? Let’s figure out in the blog below as we discuss – 
  • What is a teamwork mentality? 
  • Why should a manager bother with it?
  • How can you create a teamwork mentality? 
From setting clear goals to promoting a positive team culture, these strategies will help managers lay the foundation for effective teamwork and enhance team collaboration.
Table of Contents

What is a Teamwork Mentality?

A teamwork mentality is the shared mindset of a group of colleagues working towards a common goal. It involves cooperation, collaboration, and a focus on the team’s collective success. In a teamwork mentality, individual team members prioritize the team’s goals and interests over their own. They demonstrate a positive attitude, commitment, accountability, and responsibility for their actions.

Why should you focus on a team-first mindset?

Effective teamwork is essential for organizations to achieve their objectives. It ensures that team members work together efficiently, share information and resources, and support each other in achieving their goals. A teamwork mentality also promotes open communication, trust, and respect among team members.  Fostering teamwork is crucial for effectiveness as a manager in a leadership position. It is essential when you are a new manager because not moving from the thinking process of an individual contributor to that of a team leader can bug your way.  A strong teamwork mentality in your leadership philosophy means that you understand the importance of collaboration, communication, and emotional intelligence in achieving team goals. Leaders prioritizing teamwork create an environment where team members feel valued, supported, and empowered. As a result, people think they are contributing to something more significant and not just working hard for things that do not matter to them. By embodying the values of teamwork, you can inspire and motivate team members to adopt a similar mindset and work together towards a common goal.

Key Differences Between Individual and Team Mindsets

Individual and team mindsets have distinct characteristics that impact team dynamics and performance. In an individual mindset, team members primarily focus on their own goals, interests, and success. They prioritize personal achievements over the collective success of the team. Individual mindset often leads to limited collaboration, communication, and mutual support among team members. On the other hand, a team mindset emphasizes the importance of working together towards a common goal. Team members with a team mindset prioritize the success of the whole team over individual achievements. They collaborate, communicate openly, and support each other in achieving shared objectives. In a team mindset, team members recognize that their contributions are valuable to the team’s overall success. Building a teamwork mentality involves shifting individual mindsets towards a team-oriented attitude. Let’s check out how you can shift your team toward a teamwork mentality.

Do you have a teamwork mentality? Some signs of absence to note

At first, your team might not be open to changing their thinking as you set up a new way of thinking. And that’s completely okay; significant and sudden changes often face resistance. Moreover, some of your team might need support in getting things done. Let’s see what these common challenges of a teamwork mentality are and how can managers like you beat them with some examples –

There are frequent conflicts in the team 

In a marketing team, there’s no clear communication about roles and responsibilities for a particular project, team members step on each other’s toes, leading to conflicts over who should take the lead or contribute in what way. These conflicts hinder productivity, create a toxic work environment, and ultimately damage the team is not able to collaborate effectively.

Before proceeding to the conflict resolution, take some time to understand why those conflicts are arising. Is it a difference in personalities, working styles, or priorities? If it is any of the latter two, you can step in as a manager and help. In case of personality or communication conflicts, listen to both sides and help you find common ground to work on. Remember, teamwork is about accommodating and achieving shared goals; it’s not about one-upmanship.

Accountability gets lost in the shadow of teamwork

A software development team fails to meet a project milestone. Team members constantly shift blame or make excuses rather than taking ownership of their tasks and commitments It leads to delays, frustration, and a breakdown in trust among team members.

Teamwork does not mean putting everything on a shared task list. Instead, you are still required to define individual roles and responsibilities. The only difference is that each of those individuals works in contingency with the rest. Their work can impact each other’s outcomes, and together, they can make an impact. Be sure to set expectations clearly at both team and individual levels. At times, such conflicts also arise when team and personal goals mismatch.

People feel that workload is not distributed fairly

In a sales team, if one or two members consistently avoid challenging or less desirable tasks, such as cold calling or following up on leads, while others are left to handle the bulk of the workload. It breeds resentment and frustration among team members. This imbalance not only undermines team morale but also hampers overall productivity and performance, which are crucial for good sales.

Managing workload distribution fairly is essential for maintaining teamwork and ensuring the team’s success. Before delegating, assess team members’ skills, strengths, and availability for different tasks. Review and adjust workload distribution as needed regularly while also encouraging open communication and flexibility in task assignments.

Teamwork falters often

In a project team tasked with launching a new product, team members work in silos without sharing information or seeking input from each other. It results in disjointed efforts, missed opportunities, and ultimately, a failed project. Without a collective commitment to working together towards common goals, the team’s performance and success are compromised.

Continuous learning and development are vital for sustaining a teamwork mentality over time. Adapting to changes and evolving alongside your team is crucial as a manager. Embracing valuable insights and feedback while promptly addressing challenges can keep the team motivated and cohesive. Remember, trust builds slowly but is fundamental for long-term success. Your team will thrive and overcome obstacles together when you nurture a positive attitude and create a culture that emphasizes growth for all. If those examples seem relatable, your team needs to rethink their approach to getting things done. A team-first attitude can bring drastic changes, as it puts forth the team’s needs and lets go of personal agendas. As managers, we can do a few things to get this process started, as suggested in the following section.
OtherInterestingReads

How can a manager build a teamwork mentality?

Managers are the pivot of a team. And hence, they are central to the mindset that a team will adopt when they start working. Here’s what you can do as a manager to build a team-first mindset in your employees.

Laying the Foundation for Teamwork

As with any process, building a team-first mindset starts by setting the right framework for you as a manager. Primarily, getting this foundation right would include defining what prioritizing the team looks like in terms of your vision and goals. Further, you head on to set roles and create a system that thrives with a mindset that focuses on teamwork.
  • Setting clear, achievable goals: Setting clear, achievable goals is crucial in fostering a teamwork mentality. When team members understand the goals and have a shared vision, they can align their efforts toward a common objective. The key here is to remind everyone how their small efforts make up the big picture. This promotes a sense of direction, focus, and collaboration among team members.
  • Defining who does what to achieve the goals: Establishing roles and responsibilities within the team is essential for promoting good teamwork. When team members have clearly defined roles, they know what is expected of them and how they contribute to the team’s objectives. 
  • Keeping people set on goals together: Creating accountability and dependency among team members is crucial for building a strong teamwork mentality. When team members feel accountable for their actions and outcomes, they are more likely to take ownership of their responsibilities and work towards the team’s success. 

Keeping a teamwork mentality alive

Now that you have set the stage, the fun is about to begin. Teamwork is an ongoing activity, and as your team handles the ups and downs of business, you will put your plans into action. In this process, what can a manager do? Well, a lot of caretaking and delicate balancing is needed to keep a team-first mindset alive and robust among your employees. Otherwise, it is easy for them to fall into individual mindsets and stay within the boxes set forth by corporate environments. To ensure that a teamwork mentality is sustained in your team, think along these ideas: 

Create A positive team culture

Developing an employee-focused team culture is essential for fostering a teamwork mentality. Such a positive team culture focuses on collective goals and systems and favors long-term actions over individualistic pursuits. It promotes open communication, trust, and collaboration among team members and encourages diversity, inclusivity, and a healthy work-life balance. Overall, it helps you show that you value and trust your team to get the job done. 

Build Trust and Open Communication

Trust and open communication are foundational elements of a positive team culture. When team members trust each other and feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas openly, valuable insights can be shared, and collaboration becomes more effective. 

Encourage Diversity and Inclusivity

Encouraging diversity and inclusivity is essential for building a positive team culture. Diverse teams bring different perspectives, experiences, and skills, fostering creativity, innovation, and better problem-solving. Moreover, diversity of thoughts gives you perspectives that you might often ignore. 

Actionable strategies for a team first workplace

Let’s move on to the actions once you are clear on the ideas. What can you do to consistently create a team-first mindset and demonstrate its importance to your employees?

Team Building Activities

Implementing team-building activities is a great way to enhance team collaboration and foster a teamwork mentality. These activities allow team members to get to know each other, build trust, and improve communication. Some examples of team-building activities that you can try are:
  • Icebreaker games to break the ice and create a positive atmosphere
  • Group problem-solving activities to encourage collaboration and problem-solving skills
  • Outdoor activities or retreats to create bonding experiences and foster team spirit
  • Team building workshops or seminars to develop teamwork skills and improve team dynamics

Technology for Better Collaboration

Adopting technology is an effective way to enhance team collaboration and streamline communication and work processes. It is beneficial for managers of remote and hybrid teams. Here are some ways you can use technology for better collaboration:
  • Adopt collaboration tools and platforms that facilitate communication, file sharing, and project management so that your team always has access to the resources they need
  • Use video conferencing tools for virtual meetings and remote collaboration to keep connections alive even at a distance
  • Implement task management tools to track progress and assign tasks; it’s also great to sync up across teams and collaborate 

Recognizing and Celebrating Team Achievements

Recognizing and celebrating team achievements is crucial for fostering a positive team culture and enhancing collaboration. It shows that you care about the achievements built together and not just personal milestones. Here are some ways you can recognize and celebrate team achievements:
  • Celebrate milestones and achievements with team-wide events or rewards
  • Encourage team members to recognize and appreciate each other’s efforts and contributions
  • Foster a culture of positivity and gratitude by highlighting team successes and expressing appreciation openly

Wrapping Up

A teamwork-first mentality is essential to keep your employees together and focused on a shared vision. Building motivation and inspiring your team to achieve more is also necessary. As a manager, fostering a team-first mindset can help you set your team apart from the rest – as they are ready to go above and beyond for the goals that matter to all. But it takes a lot of work. Building a teamwork mentality takes copious amounts of hard work, from setting the goals right to consistently learning and adapting to the team’s needs. Sometimes, troubles like conflicts and interpersonal issues can hold you back, but fret not! Because Risely, the manager’s buddy, is there to help you out of those tricky situations. Regular nudges, conversations, and activities are designed to build your skills as a people manager slowly, and much more are awaiting a free 14-day trial of Risely for you.

Deeksha Sharma

Deeksha, with a solid educational background in human resources, bridges the gap between your goals and you with valuable insights and strategies within leadership development. Her unique perspectives, powered by voracious reading, lead to thoughtful pieces that tie conventional know-how and innovative approaches together to enable success for management professionals.

Grab a free resource for your team!

Check out the free growth mindset toolkit for managers and leaders to get frameworks and tips for success.

Start Now

Top Time Management Coaches: Take Control Of Your Time Today

Top Time Management Coaches: Take Control Of Your Time Today

In the fast-paced world of modern business, effective time management is not just a valuable skill—it’s a necessity for success. Leaders and managers often juggle multiple responsibilities, deadlines, and demands on their time. Without proper time management strategies, it’s easy to become overwhelmed, leading to stress, burnout, and decreased productivity. Fortunately, some experts specialize in helping individuals master the art of time management. These time management coaches offer invaluable insights, techniques, and strategies to help professionals optimize their time, increase productivity, and achieve greater life balance. In this blog, we’ll explore ten top time management coaches who specialize in coaching professionals, delving into their backgrounds, approaches, and expertise in helping you reclaim control of your time and accomplish more with less effort. Whether you need help to stay focused, manage distractions, or prioritize tasks effectively, these coaches have the knowledge and experience to guide you toward greater efficiency, effectiveness, and fulfilment in your personal and professional endeavours.
Table of Contents

Understanding Time Management

Time management is the process of planning, organizing, and controlling how you spend your time to effectively accomplish specific tasks and goals. In today’s fast-paced world, entrepreneurs and leaders often juggle multiple responsibilities and face competing demands on their time. Without effective time management skills, it’s easy to become overwhelmed, leading to stress, burnout, and decreased productivity. Effective time management involves more than making to-do lists or setting reminders. It requires a strategic approach to allocating time to tasks based on their importance and urgency. By identifying priorities, setting realistic goals, and implementing efficient workflows, individuals can optimize their productivity and achieve better work-life balance. Understanding time management principles is the first step toward improving productivity and efficiency in both professional and personal life. By becoming aware of time management techniques and strategies, entrepreneurs and leaders can learn to make the most of their limited time resources and accomplish more with less effort.

Benefits of Time Management Coaching

While many people recognize the importance of time management, implementing effective strategies can be challenging without proper guidance and support. This is where time management coaching comes into play. Time management coaches are experts in helping you develop the skills, habits, and mindset needed to manage your time more effectively. One of the key benefits of time management coaching is accountability. Coaches provide personalized support and encouragement, helping you stay focused and committed to your time management goals. Coaches offer valuable insights and strategies tailored to each individual’s unique needs and circumstances. By working with a time management coach, entrepreneurs and leaders can learn to overcome common time management challenges, such as procrastination, indecision, and poor delegation. You can also develop sustainable habits and routines that promote long-term productivity and success. Overall, time management coaching offers a structured and systematic approach to improving time management skills. This leads to increased efficiency, reduced stress, and better overall performance.
OtherInterestingReads

Criteria for Selecting a Time Management Coach

Choosing the right time management coach is essential for maximizing the benefits of coaching. When evaluating potential coaches, entrepreneurs and leaders should consider several key criteria:
  • Experience: Look for a coach with a proven track record of success in time management coaching. Ideally, the coach should have experience working with clients in similar industries or roles.
  • Qualifications: Verify that the coach possesses relevant certifications or credentials in coaching and time management. A background in psychology, organizational behavior, or productivity can also be advantageous.
  • Approach: Assess the coach’s coaching style and methodologies to ensure compatibility with your learning preferences and goals. Some coaches may employ a more directive approach, while others may focus on facilitating self-discovery and reflection.
  • References: Request references or testimonials from past clients to gauge the coach’s effectiveness and impact. Feedback from others who have worked with the coach can provide valuable insights into their coaching process and outcomes.
  • Alignment: Seek a coach who shares your values and understands your organizational context. A coach who aligns with your vision and objectives will be better equipped to support your growth and development as a time manager.
By carefully considering these criteria, entrepreneurs and leaders can select a time management coach who is well-equipped to help them achieve their goals and aspirations.

Top Time Management Coaches

Now, let’s delve into the profiles of the top time management coaches who have earned recognition for their expertise and impact in productivity and time management. Each of these coaches brings a unique blend of experience, insights, and methodologies to help you unlock their full potential as effective time managers. From renowned authors and speakers to experienced consultants and trainers, these coaches have distinguished themselves through their commitment to excellence and ability to inspire transformational change in your lives.

Laura Stack

Laura Stack, known as “The Productivity Pro,” is a bestselling author, speaker, and time management expert. She has written several books on productivity, including “What to Do When There’s Too Much to Do” and “SuperCompetent.” Laura Stack’s approach to time management focuses on practical strategies for increasing productivity and reducing overwhelm. She offers actionable tips for prioritizing tasks, managing distractions, and maximizing efficiency in both professional and personal life.

Rory Vaden

Rory Vaden is a bestselling author, speaker, and productivity expert known for his work on time management and self-discipline. He is the author of “Take the Stairs” and “Procrastinate on Purpose.” Rory Vaden’s approach to time management emphasizes the importance of prioritization and intentional decision-making. He helps you identify your most important tasks and focus your time and energy on activities that align with their goals and values.

Craig Jarrow

Craig Jarrow founded Time Management Ninja, a popular blog and resource for time management tips and techniques. He is known for his practical advice on task management, email management, and productivity hacks. Craig Jarrow’s approach to time management coaching is simple and practical. He offers straightforward strategies for organizing tasks, reducing distractions, and increasing efficiency, helping you take control of your time and achieve their goals.

Helene Segura

Helene Segura is a time management coach, productivity expert, and author known for helping managers and organizations overcome procrastination and overwhelm. She is the author of “The Inefficiency Assassin” and “The Time Management Survival Guide.” Helene Segura’s approach to time management coaching combines practical strategies with a focus on mindset and behavior change. She helps you identify and overcome the root causes of time management challenges, empowering you to work smarter and achieve better results.

Mark Ellwood

Mark Ellwood is a time management coach, speaker, and author who specializes in helping professionals increase their productivity and achieve work-life balance. He is the author of “How to Get More Done: 7 Secrets of Effective Time Management.” His approach to time management coaching emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals, managing priorities, and creating systems for staying organized and focused. He offers you practical techniques for overcoming procrastination, managing distractions, and making the most of each day.

Frances Booth

Frances Booth is a time management coach, consultant, and author known for helping leaders and organizations improve their productivity and effectiveness. She is the author of “The Distraction Trap” and “The Secret World of Productivity.”  Frances Booth’s approach to time management coaching is based on research-backed strategies for managing distractions, increasing focus, and optimizing workflow. She helps you develop personalized systems and habits for maximizing productivity and achieving your goals.

Alexis Haselberger

Alexis Haselberger is a time management coach and productivity consultant known for helping busy professionals reclaim their time and focus. She offers individual coaching, workshops, and online courses to help you overcome overwhelm and achieve their goals. Her approach to time management coaching is rooted in neuroscience and psychology. She offers evidence-based strategies for increasing focus, managing distractions, and optimizing workflow. She also helps you develop personalized systems and habits to better manage their time and energy.

Tim Stringer

Tim Stringer is a productivity coach, consultant, and founder of Technically Simple, a company specializing in productivity and technology training. He is known for his expertise in leveraging technology to improve time management and workflow. Tim Stringer’s approach to time management coaching integrates technology tools and techniques with mindfulness and productivity principles. He helps you leverage digital tools effectively, streamline workflows, and cultivate habits for greater focus and efficiency.

Dave Crenshaw

Dave Crenshaw is a time management coach, speaker, and author known for helping individuals overcome overwhelm and improve their productivity. He is the author of “The Myth of Multitasking” and “The Power of Having Fun.” His approach to time management coaching focuses on eliminating time-wasting habits and optimizing workflow for maximum efficiency. He offers you practical strategies for prioritizing tasks, managing interruptions, and creating systems for staying organized and focused.

Conclusion

In conclusion, effective time management is a cornerstone of success in today’s fast-paced world. By working with a time management coach, professionals can gain valuable insights, techniques, and strategies to optimize their productivity, reduce stress, and achieve greater work-life balance. Whether you’re looking to overcome procrastination, manage your workload more effectively, or simply make the most of your time, these ten time management coaches offer the expertise and guidance needed to help you reach your goals. Remember, time is a finite resource, and how you spend it can profoundly impact your personal and professional success. By investing in your time management skills and working with a coach who specializes in helping professionals, you can unlock your full potential, accomplish more with less effort, and create a productive and fulfilling life. If you still feel confused about how and where to start. Risely is your answer. Risely helps by providing you personalized learning journey for skills like time management that enhance how you perform as a leader in your workplace. It starts with assessing your current skills and then moves on creating a learning plan that is unique to you and your challenges. Take the free 14-day trial and start your journey of leadership development.

Aastha Bensla

Aastha, a passionate industrial psychologist, writer, and counselor, brings her unique expertise to Risely. With specialized knowledge in industrial psychology, Aastha offers a fresh perspective on personal and professional development. Her broad experience as an industrial psychologist enables her to accurately understand and solve problems for managers and leaders with an empathetic approach.

Make the most of your time to be a productive leader.

Take our free time management assessment and review your skills to get started on your journey.

Start Now

Best Decision Coaches To Guide You Toward Great Choices

Best Decision Coaches To Guide You Toward Great Choices

Effective decision-making is more crucial than ever in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. Entrepreneurs, leaders, and professionals alike are constantly faced with complex and uncertain situations that demand strategic thinking and decisive action. However, mastering the art of decision-making is not always easy. It requires a combination of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to navigate ambiguity. Fortunately, numerous resources are available to help leaders and managers like you to enhance their decision-making skills and make better choices in both personal and professional contexts. From workshops to expert guidance from decision making coaches, there are countless opportunities to help you develop and refine this essential skill set. Let’s take you through some of these resources.
Table of Contents

Why does Decision-Making matter?

Effective decision-making is a fundamental skill for entrepreneurs and leaders alike. Every day, leaders like you in leadership positions face a myriad of choices that can impact their organizations’ trajectory. Sound, timely decisions are crucial for driving growth, mitigating risks, and achieving organizational objectives. From strategic decisions about market expansion to operational decisions about resource allocation, making sound decisions is crucial. Understanding the importance of decision-making involves recognizing its role in shaping organizational outcomes. Effective decisions can increase competitiveness, innovation, and profitability, while poor decisions can result in wasted resources, missed opportunities, and even failure. By understanding the significance of decision-making, you can prioritize the development of their decision-making skills and seek out resources, such as decision coaching, to support their growth in this area.

Why should you get a Decision Making Coach?

Decision coaching offers numerous benefits for entrepreneurs and leaders seeking to improve their decision-making skills. One primary advantage is the opportunity for personalized guidance and support. Decision coaches work closely with you to understand your unique challenges, goals, and decision-making processes, providing tailored strategies and techniques to enhance their ability to make effective decisions. Additionally, decision making coach can help you overcome common barriers to effective decision-making, such as decision fatigue, cognitive biases, and fear of failure. Coaches provide valuable insights and perspectives, assisting your approach to decision-making with greater clarity, confidence, and resilience. Through the coaching process, you can develop a deeper understanding of your decision-making strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to make more informed and strategic choices in the future.
OtherInterestingReads

Top Decision Coaches for Managers

Gary Klein

Gary Klein is a cognitive psychologist and author known for his expertise in naturalistic decision-making. He has extensively researched how experts make decisions in high-pressure, real-world situations, such as firefighting, military operations, and emergency medicine. Gary Klein’s approach to decision-making coaching emphasizes the importance of intuition, pattern recognition, and experience in making effective decisions. He helps leaders and organizations develop decision-making skills by understanding the cognitive processes underlying expert judgment and decision-making.

Francesca Gino

Francesca Gino is a behavioral scientist and author known for researching decision-making, creativity, and ethics. She has published numerous studies on ethical decision-making, decision biases, and the psychology of choice. Francesca Gino’s approach to decision-making coaching draws on insights from psychology and behavioral economics to help individuals improve their decision-making skills. She offers practical strategies for recognizing and overcoming decision biases, increasing self-awareness, and making better choices in both professional and personal contexts.

Annie Duke

Annie Duke is a former professional poker player who has become a decision strategist and author. She is known for her expertise in decision-making, risk management, and cognitive psychology, which she applies to help managers and organizations improve their decision-making skills. Annie Duke’s approach to decision-making coaching is grounded in principles derived from poker strategy, such as probabilistic thinking, risk assessment, and decision analysis. She helps individuals develop a more rational and disciplined approach to decision-making, enabling them to make better choices under uncertainty.

Michael Roberto

Michael Roberto is a professor of management and author known for his work on decision-making, leadership, and organizational change. He has written several books on decision-making, including “Why Great Leaders Don’t Take Yes for an Answer” and “Know What You Don’t Know.” His research informs Michael Roberto’s approach to decision-making coaching on decision-making processes and organizational dynamics. He helps managers and teams improve decision-making skills by identifying and addressing common pitfalls and biases, fostering open dialogue and debate, and leveraging diverse perspectives to make better choices.

Chip Heath

Chip Heath is a professor of organizational behavior and author known for his work on decision-making, change management, and innovation. He has written several bestselling books on these topics, including “Switch” and “Decisive.” Chip Heath’s approach to decision-making coaching draws on insights from psychology and neuroscience to help managers and organizations improve their decision-making skills. He offers practical strategies for overcoming decision paralysis, reducing biases, and making better choices in complex and uncertain environments.

Sheena Iyengar

Sheena Iyengar is a professor of business and author known for her research on decision-making, choice, and psychology. She has conducted extensive studies on decision-making under uncertainty, choice overload, and cultural differences in decision-making. Sheena Iyengar’s approach to decision-making coaching focuses on understanding the factors that influence choices and preferences. She helps you improve your decision-making skills by recognizing and mitigating decision biases, clarifying values and priorities, and making more informed and intentional choices.

Gretchen Rubin

Gretchen Rubin is an author and happiness expert known for her work on habits, decision-making, and personal development. She is the author of several bestselling books, including The Happiness Project and Better Than Before. Her approach to decision-making coaching focuses on understanding the role of habits and personality in decision-making. She helps you improve your decision-making skills by identifying and changing habits that may hold you back, clarifying values and priorities, and creating systems and routines that support better choices.

John Mattone

John Mattone is an executive coach and author known for his leadership development, talent management, and decision-making work. He has worked with numerous Fortune 500 companies and global organizations to help leaders and teams unlock their potential and achieve peak performance. John Mattone’s approach to decision-making coaching is grounded in his extensive experience working with leaders and teams across industries. He helps you develop your decision-making skills by focusing on core leadership competencies, such as self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking, essential for making effective decisions in complex and dynamic environments.

Heidi Grant

Heidi Grant is a psychologist and author known for her research on decision-making, motivation, and goal-setting. She has written several books on these topics, including “Reinforcements” and “Nine Things Successful People Do Differently.” Heidi Grant’s approach to decision-making coaching draws on insights from social psychology and behavioral science to help you understand and improve their decision-making processes. She offers practical strategies for setting and achieving goals, overcoming procrastination, and increasing motivation, which are essential for making better choices and taking decisive action.

Conclusion

Effective decision-making is a cornerstone of success in today’s complex and dynamic world. By investing in your decision-making skills and leveraging the available resources, you can become a more confident and strategic decision-maker capable of navigating uncertainty and driving positive change in your personal and professional endeavors. Whether you enroll in an online course, seek guidance from a decision making coach, or explore other learning opportunities, the key is committing to continuous improvement and growth. Finding a decision coach whose ideas aligns with you can be of great assistance in your journey of leadership development. By developing your critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, you’ll be better equipped to tackle challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve your goals with clarity and confidence. If you still feel confused about how and where to start. Risely is your answer. Risely helps by providing you personalized learning journey for skills like decision making that enhance how you perform as a leader in your workplace. It starts with assessing your current skills and then moves on creating a learning plan that is unique to you and your challenges. Take the free 14-day trial and start your journey of leadership development. So why wait? Start your journey to mastering decision-making today and unlock your full potential for success!

Aastha Bensla

Aastha, a passionate industrial psychologist, writer, and counselor, brings her unique expertise to Risely. With specialized knowledge in industrial psychology, Aastha offers a fresh perspective on personal and professional development. Her broad experience as an industrial psychologist enables her to accurately understand and solve problems for managers and leaders with an empathetic approach.

Be efficient in making quick and informed decisions.

Master the art of decision-making by reviewing your skills with a free assessment now.

Start Now

Other Related Blogs

Blog

How to handle employee’s request for a pay raise? 5 Samples and Scenarios

How to handle employee’s request for a pay raise? 5 Samples and Scenarios As the manager of a team, it’s important to be able to handle any situation that arises.…
Read More

How do Mental Models help in Effective Decision-Making as a Manager?

How do Mental Models help in Effective Decision-Making as a Manager? As a manager, your days are a whirlwind of choices: launching new products, managing teams, and steering your company…
Read More

5 Crucial Steps To Balancing Stakeholders As A Team Manager

5 Crucial Steps To Balancing Stakeholders As A Team Manager Balancing Stakeholders can be a daunting task, but it can be much easier with the right approach and strategies in…
Read More

The 7 Essential Leadership Qualities You Need To Grow

The 7 Essential Leadership Qualities You Need To Grow Leadership qualities are the hard-wired behaviors that help us achieve leadership. There is a whole lot of talk about leadership qualities,…
Read More

Top 10 New Manager Skills That You Must Learn

Top 10 New Manager Skills That You Must Learn

Congratulations on your promotion as a new manager! It’s a big transition and can be challenging. You may have been an expert in your previous role, but you will face new challenges as a manager. From managing people to dealing with conflicts, it can become overwhelming. But don’t worry! In this blog post, we have compiled some tips and tricks to help you successfully navigate the challenges of being a new manager. From leadership tips to managing remote teams, we have got you covered. We’ll also look at common mistakes to avoid and how to continuously improve as a manager. So, let’s get you started into leadership development to set you up for success in your new role.
Table of Contents

What are the challenges faced by new managers?

New managers face various challenges as they transition into their new roles. Some of the most common challenges that new managers face is having one-on-one meetings, guiding team members, lack of communication skills, etc. These challenges require patience, adaptability, and strong leadership skills to overcome and succeed in their new role.
  • Mindset shift from IC to Manager: Moving from an individual contributor role to a managerial position requires a shift in mindset. New managers must learn to focus on team success rather than personal achievements and adjust to the new dynamics of leading and empowering others.
  • Being a Superhero: Since you transition from a great individual contributor to a manager, you tend to think that you can do a lot of things yourself. This might lead you to be involved in a lot of tasks that can be delegated to others and also makes you prone to being a micromanager.
  • Building Relationships: Establishing relationships with team members, peers, and superiors can be challenging for new managers. Building trust and credibility takes time, and they may encounter resistance or skepticism from team members accustomed to a previous manager’s leadership style.
  • Management Style: As a new manager, you might get into the role without totally understanding your own style from the different types of leadership style. Knowing the style that works the best for you can help you be better prepared to be an efficient leader for your team.
  • Time Management: Balancing various responsibilities and priorities can challenge new managers. They may need help to allocate time effectively, juggle multiple tasks, and prioritize their efforts.
  • Decision-Making: New managers often face decision-making challenges as they navigate through complex situations and deal with ambiguity. They may be required to make tough choices that impact their team and the organization, and learning to make informed decisions can be overwhelming.
  • Managing Conflict: Conflict resolution and interpersonal conflicts within the team can be difficult for new managers. They must learn to address conflicts professionally, mediate disputes, and maintain team cohesion.
Here is the new manager checklist which is essential in making you a smart manager in 2023!
OtherInterestingReads

New Manager Skills: Top 10 Skills to Focus on!

Starting a new role as a manager can be challenging but exciting. As you step into this leadership role, we provide you with some top skills that must learn and practice in order to reach your potential as a leader: –

Communication Skills

Effective communication is essential for new managers because it forms the foundation of their interactions with team members, superiors, and other stakeholders. Clear communication ensures that expectations are understood, instructions are followed accurately, feedback is delivered constructively, and conflicts are resolved efficiently. Without strong communication skills, misunderstandings can arise, leading to decreased productivity, morale issues, and breakdowns in teamwork.

Time Management

Time management is crucial for new managers juggling multiple responsibilities, deadlines, and competing priorities. By mastering time management techniques, new managers can optimize their productivity, avoid procrastination, and ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Effective time management also allows managers to allocate sufficient time for strategic planning, team development, and personal growth, ultimately contributing to their effectiveness as leaders.

Leadership Skills

As new managers, you are tasked with guiding, motivating, and inspiring their team members to achieve common goals. Leadership skills are essential for fostering a positive work culture, building trust, and driving performance. By demonstrating strong leadership qualities such as integrity, empathy, and vision, new managers can earn the respect and loyalty of their team, leading to increased engagement, productivity, and retention.

Emotional Competence

It involves understanding and managing one’s emotions and recognizing and empathizing with others’ emotions. New managers need emotional intelligence to navigate interpersonal dynamics, handle conflicts diplomatically, and motivate their teams effectively. By developing emotional competence, new managers can foster positive relationships, resolve conflicts constructively, and create a supportive work environment where team members feel valued and understood.

One-on-One Meetings

Regular one-on-one meetings with team members provide new managers valuable opportunities to build rapport, offer support, provide feedback, and address individual needs and concerns. These meetings help strengthen the manager-employee relationship, enhance communication, and promote employee engagement and development. New managers may struggle to understand their team members’ motivations, challenges, and career aspirations without effective one-on-one meetings, leading to disengagement and turnover.

Interpersonal Skills

Interpersonal skills are essential for building strong relationships, fostering collaboration, and resolving conflicts effectively. New managers must be able to communicate clearly, listen actively, and empathize with their team members to create a cohesive and productive work environment. Strong interpersonal skills enable managers to build trust, navigate diverse personalities, and inspire their teams to achieve common goals.

Effective Delegation

Delegation is vital for new managers to leverage the strengths of their team members, promote skill development, and achieve collective goals. By delegating tasks effectively, managers can empower their team, free up time for strategic priorities, and foster a culture of trust and accountability. Without effective delegation, new managers may struggle to manage their workload, experience burnout, and hinder the growth and development of their team. Read more: Top 5 qualities that will make you a great leader!

Decision-Making

New managers often face situations where they need to make critical decisions that impact their team and the organization as a whole. Developing strong decision-making abilities allows new managers to assess situations objectively, weigh available options, and choose the most appropriate course of action. Effective decision-making instils confidence in the team and enables the manager to navigate challenges effectively, driving the team toward success.

Goal-Setting

Setting clear and achievable goals is essential for aligning efforts, motivating team members, and driving performance. New managers must be proficient in setting SMART goals—specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. By setting goals effectively, managers provide clarity and direction for their team, track progress, and celebrate successes. Goal-setting also helps new managers prioritize tasks, allocate resources effectively, and focus efforts on activities that contribute to organizational objectives.

Prioritization

Prioritization involves identifying the most important tasks and allocating resources accordingly. New managers must prioritize their workload and help their team members prioritize their tasks to ensure that deadlines are met, resources are utilized efficiently, and goals are achieved. Effective prioritization allows managers to focus on high-impact activities, delegate tasks effectively, and adapt to changing priorities, ultimately driving productivity and success. All these skills to learn and no idea of where to start. The first step is assessing where your current skills are. And this happens to be a quick and easy task. How? With Risely. Get started with a free assessment of your leadership skills and get a personalized report of what exactly you need to work on. Take the first step and get started on your journey of becoming the leader you wish to be!

Tips for managing a remote team

Managing any team is a tricky thing. And it becomes even more difficult when it comes to handling remote teams. Well, you don’t need to be worried about it. Here are some tips and new manager advice that can help you manage your remote teams efficiently. And once you start learning and applying the skills mentioned above, your journey as a new manager will start to get smoother and would allow you to reach your full potential as a leader.

Become a Communication Maestro

  • Regular video meetings: Weekly team huddles or project-specific video calls to keep everyone connected and engaged.
  • Instant messaging platforms: Tools like Slack allow quick questions, updates, and informal chats.
  • Project management software: This keeps everyone on the same page with deadlines, tasks, and progress updates.

Set Clear Expectations (and Avoid Micromanaging)

  • Roles and responsibilities: Outline each team member’s duties and ownership within projects.
  • Deadlines and deliverables: Establish clear timelines and expectations for project completion.
  • Trust your team to manage their time effectively. Remote work thrives on autonomy – micromanaging will only stifle creativity and motivation.

Remote Doesn’t Mean Out of Touch

  • Offer training and support: Help your team navigate new tools and processes.
  • Be readily available: Set clear communication hours where you’re readily available via instant messaging or email for quick questions or guidance.
  • Schedule regular team meetings: Weekly huddles or project updates keep everyone aligned and informed.
  • Don’t forget the fun!: Organize virtual team-building activities like online games, trivia nights, or even virtual coffee breaks to promote social interaction.

Embrace the Feedback Loop

  • Seek feedback: Regularly ask your team for input on communication channels, workflows, and overall team dynamics.
  • Be a growth mindset leader: Be open to trying new tools and adapting your management style based on your team’s needs.

Common mistakes to avoid as a new manager (With Examples)

As a new manager, it’s essential to be aware of common mistakes and actively work to avoid them. By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can avoid pitfalls and set yourself up for success as a new manager. Always strive to learn, adapt, and improve your leadership skills for your team and yourself. Remember that being a good leader takes hard work but is ultimately worth it. Here are some errors to avoid:

Micromanagement Mayhem

Imagine Sarah, a new marketing manager, brimming with fresh ideas. She assigns tasks to her team but constantly checks their progress, hovering over their shoulders and offering unsolicited advice. This stifles creativity and reduces ownership. Team members feel like their skills aren’t trusted, leading to frustration and a decline in morale.

The Fix:  Empower your team! Delegate tasks clearly, outlining deadlines and expectations. Then, give them the space to work independently. Schedule regular check-ins for updates and course corrections but avoid micromanagement. Trust your team’s abilities and allow them to shine.

Communication Catastrophe

David, a new IT manager, enthusiastically announces a major software upgrade via a vague email. The team is confused about functionalities, training options, and timelines. This lack of clear communication delays and frustration as the team scrambles to figure things out.

The Fix:  Prioritize clear and consistent communication. Keep your team informed about changes, projects, and deadlines. Hold regular team meetings to ensure everyone is on the same page. Utilize multiple communication channels (email, instant messaging, video conferencing) to cater to different preferences. Don’t be afraid to over-communicate – it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

The Feedback Fiasco

Lisa, a new sales manager, avoids one-on-one meetings with her team members, fearing critical feedback might damage relationships. This lack of guidance hinders their development and leaves them unsure of their performance.

The Fix:  Feedback is a gift, not a weapon! Schedule regular check-ins with your team to provide constructive criticism, celebrate wins, and offer guidance for improvement. Create a safe open-space where your team feels comfortable sharing thoughts and concerns. Remember, feedback should be specific, actionable, and delivered with empathy. Also, don’t forget to get employee feedback from your team members!

Delegation Disaster

Imagine Mark, a new engineering manager, feels pressure to prove himself. He clings to all tasks and responsibilities, refusing to delegate. This leads to burnout for Mark and hinders his team’s development. They are never allowed to learn and grow their skills.

The Fix:  Delegate effectively! Don’t be afraid to distribute tasks based on your team member’s strengths and skill sets. This empowers them, fosters ownership, and frees up your time to focus on strategic initiatives. Provide clear instructions and support, but avoid micromanaging. Trust your team to deliver!

Recognition and Appreciation Rocky Road

John, a new customer service manager, implements a new process that significantly improves customer satisfaction ratings. However, he fails to acknowledge his team’s hard work and dedication in making the changes a success. Team morale plummets as their efforts go unnoticed.

The Fix: Recognize and appreciate your team’s contributions! Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate their achievements, both big and small. A simple “thank you” or a public shout-out can go a long way in boosting morale and keeping your team motivated. Consider offering different types of recognition, such as verbal praise, handwritten notes, or bonus rewards, to cater to individual preferences.

To Wrap Up!

Becoming a new manager can be both exciting and challenging. And this blog here gives you several tips and tricks that could come in handy in your journey. Spend some time to self-reflect and become aware of your own strength and weaknesses and then start learning new techniques and skills to build on the knowledge you already have. Understanding and developing a leadership style that works for you and your team is quite essential when it comes to managing conflicts and effectively communicating goals. We have also taken you through what you should do as a manager and what you should not do. Avoiding these common mistakes like micromanaging or not giving feedback is crucial to creating a positive work environment and becoming a leader that people want to follow.
Remember to always keep learning and growing as a manager!

Aastha Bensla

Aastha, a passionate industrial psychologist, writer, and counselor, brings her unique expertise to Risely. With specialized knowledge in industrial psychology, Aastha offers a fresh perspective on personal and professional development. Her broad experience as an industrial psychologist enables her to accurately understand and solve problems for managers and leaders with an empathetic approach.

Are you confused as a new manager?

Discover your full potential as a manager and enhance your efficiency with our Manager Effectiveness Masterclass

Start Now

How to give constructive feedback to employees?

How to give constructive feedback to employees?

Have you ever sought directions while driving? What’s better? 
  • Go straight and take the second left. 
  • It’s ahead somewhere toward the left.
If you are pointing toward the first statement, you already know a thing or two about constructive feedback. Giving feedback as a manager is like showing direction to your team members who want to move ahead. They get stuck on the way because the turns are tricky and the road is bumpy; that’s where you jump in as a manager and help them find the way – through constructive feedback.  In this blog post, we will examine the core ingredients and process of delivering constructive feedback. So, let’s get started.
Table of Contents

What is constructive feedback?

Constructive feedback is delivered to aid improvement. It focuses on recognizing the strengths, underlining the weaknesses, and providing guidance. It refers to a kind of feedback that has been designed to enhance the effectiveness of someone’s work and is a form of communication where specific aims are implied. Constructive feedback facilitates rather than impedes a person’s or group’s development. It is given in a way that encourages people to improve their own work rather than just to receive correct or helpful feedback.

What are the critical ingredients of constructive feedback? 

Constructive feedback is made of five core features. 
  • Clarity: The manager should highlight the problems and suggest clear solutions. Clear communication aligns with the principles of effective communication: clarity, coherence, confidence, concreteness, correctness, conciseness, and courtesy. Following these principles ensures that your team members can easily understand and follow through.
  • Autonomy to solutions: The second critical feature of constructive feedback is autonomy to solutions. Feedback refers to nudges and guidance toward objectives. If you actively push someone and take account at every step, it is called micromanagement. Thus, good constructive feedback allows the person to choose how and when to act on it, if they want to act at all. 
  • Behavior-focused: Good constructive feedback does not focus on the person or their personality traits. Instead, it focuses attention on the work and tasks that they are charged to do. It steers clear of judgments and remarks outside the task-related area. 
  • Positive and respectful: Maintaining positivity and respect are very important in ensuring that your feedback is acted upon. Feedback delivered in a condescending manner hurts emotions and further creates a divide between the team and the manager. Conversely, being positive and respecting the context and limitations allows both parties to work together toward their objectives.
  • Fact-based: Good feedback has facts backing it up. Make sure to add specific examples or instances while sharing feedback, as this adds clarity. Similarly, examples of objectives and behaviors can help identify the proper improvement area. 
These five features make up constructive feedback. Let’s see them in action in the illustration below: 

7 Examples of Constructive Feedback to Employees

Let’s take a look at some examples of constructive feedback in the workplace for better understanding:
Constructive Feedback for Improving Task Performance

“I noticed that in the last team meeting, your presentation lacked specific data points. To improve, try incorporating more statistics and examples to make your points clearer and more persuasive.”

Constructive Feedback on Time Management

“I’ve observed that you sometimes struggle to meet deadlines. To enhance your efficiency, consider breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and setting interim deadlines for yourself.”

Constructive Feedback on Communication Skills

“Your emails could be more concise and professional. Consider rephrasing sentences to be clearer and proofreading for any grammatical errors before sending them out.”

Constructive Feedback for Team Collaboration

“During group projects, it’s important to actively listen to your colleagues’ ideas and contribute constructively. I’ve noticed that you tend to dominate discussions. Try to encourage participation from others and integrate their perspectives into our work.”

Constructive Feedback for Problem-solving Skills

“In resolving client issues, I’ve noticed you sometimes rush to solutions without fully understanding the problem. Take some time to analyze the situation thoroughly before proposing remedies, and consider consulting with team members for diverse insights.”

Constructive Feedback for Employee’s Professional Development

“To further develop your skills, I suggest attending workshops or online courses related to project management. This would help you gain new perspectives and techniques that could benefit our team’s productivity.”

Constructive Feedback on Leadership Skills

“As a team leader, it’s crucial to foster a positive work environment. I’ve noticed some tension within the team lately. Try to address conflicts promptly and encourage open communication among team members to maintain a cohesive and supportive atmosphere.”

You can find more examples of constructive feedback at work here:
OtherInterestingReads

How to deliver constructive feedback? 5 Effective tips

Here are the five basic ideas you should remember while delivering constructive feedback. Take a look at the examples provided below to understand each of the areas better.

Keep feedback for your team timely 

Effective constructive feedback is delivered on time, like the birthday cake delivered right at midnight, that gives the correct amount of delight and joy. Constructive feedback given in real-time can help your team members correct harmful patterns before they develop into bigger issues. Moreover, you can help align their development and growth plans with those of your team – keeping everything in sync. Let’s look at this with an example: 

“During the team presentation earlier, I noticed that your slides lacked clarity in explaining the project’s timeline. Providing a clear timeline is crucial for our stakeholders to understand the project’s progress. Moving forward, could you revise the slides to include specific dates and milestones? This will ensure our message is conveyed effectively and help us maintain credibility with our stakeholders.”

This feedback explains the issue (lack of clarity) precisely right after it happened (a presentation earlier in the day). As a result, the incident is fresh in both minds, and the team members can quickly note suggestions to apply in the next one. 

“After reviewing the project presentation from last month, I realized that your slides lacked clarity in explaining the project timeline. It’s important to provide clear timelines for stakeholders to understand the progress. In the future, please make sure to include specific dates and milestones in your slides.”

When feedback is delivered a month later, many more presentations are passed! The same error gets repeated until corrected later, which would be harder to track as the issue is now on the back burner. Potentially, the team member would just be annoyed at you digging graves of a matter they no longer remember.

Don’t focus on negatives alone

Mixing up feedback and criticism is easy. But worry not; here’s a simple differentiation: 
  • criticism: points out the bad parts alone 
  • constructive feedback: recognizes the good, highlights the bad, and pushes toward the better
While delivering constructive feedback, ensure that you are balancing both sides. Managers often falter and become too optimistic or pessimistic, resulting in employee losses. On the other hand, if your feedback is overtly hostile, it will discourage the employee instead of motivating them to act toward improvement.  Here’s what balance looks like 

“Well done on completing the project ahead of schedule; your dedication and hard work are evident. However, I noticed a few instances where communication could have been improved within the team, leading to some misunderstandings. Moving forward, let’s continue to prioritize clear communication to ensure smooth collaboration and success on future projects.”

Here, the manager starts by offering praise and quickly deviates into a weakness, which they point out specifically. Ultimately, they reinforce the positive message and provide suggestions for proceeding. This is known as the feedback sandwich method.

“You failed to meet the project deadline, causing significant delays. Your lack of organization and commitment is unacceptable. If this continues, it will reflect poorly on the entire team and could jeopardize our success. You need to step up your game immediately.”

Conversely, in this example, the manager sets a negative tone throughout, making the team members defensive or emotionally charged. Moreover, they are likely to be disappointed as the positive aspects of performance are not highlighted at all, and they have no ideas on how to change things.

Use examples and evidence

Using examples and evidence to support your recommendations and suggestions is the first step toward ensuring your feedback is fact-based. It also helps ensure that feedback is rooted in real reasons instead of being powered by prejudice or biases against a few team members. Moreover, using specific instances helps the employee understand your concern in detail and act accordingly. Here’s how this goes:

“I noticed during yesterday’s client meeting that you effectively addressed all of the client’s concerns and provided detailed explanations for each issue raised. Your thoroughness and knowledge of the project were impressive and contributed significantly to building client confidence in our team’s capabilities.”

After receiving this feedback, your team members will know what they did right and should continue doing. Leaving people puzzled with feedback is pretty easy, too! Here’s how you should not do it:

“I think you did a great job in the client meeting yesterday.”

Everything’s positive, but they will never find out exactly what made it great. We often use feedback to point out the negatives, but feedback is also a tool to reinforce the positives. The good things need examples, too! Additionally, highlighting examples of good behavior during team feedback sessions boosts your employees’ esteem and sets standards for others to follow.

Pay attention to the receiver 

Feedback sessions can also be emotionally charged rooms. At times, your team member’s response to receiving negative feedback can be defensive, or they might try to shift the blame onto someone else altogether. Otherwise, some people go passive during feedback sessions. The key to winning here lies in emotional intelligence and awareness. 
  • Understand the context: If the team is overloaded and your feedback is about meeting deadlines, there’s a title that they can use. Ensure you understand their perspective and the context in which they operate before sharing feedback. It helps you assess their performance better. 
  • Keep the tone right: Your tone and body language matter greatly during a feedback session. The secret to making constructive feedback right lies in nailing this critical element during meetings. Be open-minded and ready to listen actively while being an assertive communicator who can clearly set expectations.
  • Provide privacy and safety in critical moments: Ensure that feedback discussions are private and limited to the concerned team members. Psychological safety during such moments goes a long way in building team cohesion and trust.

Focus on guiding your team

Constructive feedback is not just about passing judgment. It focuses on aiding growth, and a manager can do that best by guiding others in the right direction. When delivering feedback, remember to add tips or suggestions that your team members can follow. Be ready to follow up on feedback meetings with further questions. Moreover, be open to questions during the feedback sessions themselves; it assures your team more clarity and establishes that you care about their growth. After all, their growth is the team’s growth.

“You seemed unsure during the team meeting.”

The feedback that is devoid of guidance is like lost potential. It’s merely an observation that does not suggest the exact issue and why it needs to be resolved, let alone how to resolve it. A manager can make their feedback much more effective by focusing on actionable advice for the team, such as –

“I noticed that in the team meeting, you had some difficulty articulating your ideas clearly. To improve, I suggest practicing summarizing your points beforehand and focusing on speaking slowly and confidently. Additionally, consider using visual aids or examples to illustrate your ideas, which can help make your communication more effective. Let me know if you need any support or resources to work on this.”

This feedback helps the team look at the issue (not articulating ideas clearly.) Then, it gives suggestions that can be applied. Lastly, it offers further support, reinforcing the team member’s choice of acting on the feedback in a manner that suits them.  Still confused about what’s good feedback and what’s not? Read more here: Ineffective feedback: Are You Unable To Give Constructive Feedback?

How can you improve your constructive feedback skills?

Unironically, it starts with getting some constructive feedback. Providing feedback is an essential skill for managers and leaders. But no one hands us the ultimate feedback guide when we climb the ladder. A lot is hit and trial, and it remains so. We can speed up progress with some tips on constructive feedback for managers. 
  • Keep learning from mistakes: We are going to make some mistakes. The critical point is that you should remain open to learning and improving from those incidents. Moreover, you can make some of the mistakes yourself. If you ever had a manager whose feedback meetings you hated, think about why.  Meanwhile, keep practicing with constructive feedback exercises with your team.
  • Seek feedback from your team: You can add a quick question to the meeting to get their thoughts on this issue. Your team members can help define what sort of help they need, and then you can fine-tune your approach to constructive feedback. 
  • Assess your skills regularly: Self-assessments can be super helpful in building skills over time. Risely can help you assess your constructive feedback skills for free here. Moreover, you can seek reviews on your skills from your team, too. 

Wrapping Up

Constructive feedback, which focuses on strengths, weaknesses, and guidance, is essential for the growth and development of your team. Its critical ingredients—clarity, autonomy to solutions, behavior-focused, positive and respectful, and fact-based—ensure effective communication and improvement. Continuous learning and seeking feedback help you refine constructive feedback skills, fostering a culture of growth and development within teams.

Deeksha Sharma

Deeksha, with a solid educational background in human resources, bridges the gap between your goals and you with valuable insights and strategies within leadership development. Her unique perspectives, powered by voracious reading, lead to thoughtful pieces that tie conventional know-how and innovative approaches together to enable success for management professionals.

Ace performance reviews with strong feedback skills.

Master the art of constructive feedback by reviewing your skills with a free assessment now.

Start Now

Exit mobile version