Life is like a bus. You’re the driver. Want the people on your bus to enjoy the ride? Love your passengers! That isn’t always easy, especially at work. But there’s no better way to enhance the performance and productivity of your team.
1. Make time for them.
Just like you can’t spend quality time with your loved ones if you’re glued to the TV, you can’t nurture business relationships if you’re sitting at your desk all the time. Get out of your office and get to know your team. Meet with each member individually, and when you do, don’t think about all the other things you have to do that day. Really be with that person and focus your energy completely on him. He will feel the difference.
2. Listen to them.
Sit down with your employees and customers, and really hear them. Let them do the talking. You don’t have to agree with them, but you need to care about what they have to say.
3. Recognize them.
I don’t mean trophies or awards dinners. Make it personal. Honor people not just for what they do but also for who they are. One leader I know picks out a birthday card for each employee and sends it with a handwritten note. Praise your team when they’re doing things right. Positive reinforcement works wonders!
4. Serve them.
Look out for your team members’ careers, their futures and their spirits so that they enjoy work, enjoy life and enjoy riding on your bus. The more you serve people’s growth, the more they will help you grow.
5. Bring out the best in them.
What’s the absolute best way for you to show your love for your team? Help each person discover her unique strengths. Then give her ways to use those strengths. If you help the people around you shine, the future will be bright for all of you!
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