While usually you won’t see me speak in “don’ts” rather than “do’s,” today I’m breaking my own rules to share this list of 10 things you DO NOT want to do to your staff – especially if they happen to be millennials!
Don’t point out their weaknesses. It’s not your job to “fix” your employees. Look for their strengths and give them the opportunity to do what they do best. Look for what’s good about what they do and encourage them to do more of it.
Don’t breathe down their necks and micro manage. Draw them all into a conversation about how – together – you can create such a great experience for the customers you do have that they’ll want to come back and bring friends.
Don’t turn into an old era authoritarian “my way or the highway” type. If you alienate them, you’ll cut yourself off from the genius in them. Invite them to help find solutions.
Don’t keep your expectations a secret – they need to know what they are and if they have changed. This is complaint I hear often. Keep people on the same page with what you expect.
Don’t be what you’re not – authenticity will get you a lot further. If you are challenged with how to engage them, ask them what would help. Be yourself – even more so – be vulnerable.
Don’t clam up because you’re scared. During times of change it’s critical to communicate and communicate often and honestly. When you allow yourself to go to fear, you shut down important parts of your brain – and theirs. (If you need help with this get a good positive leadership coach.)
Don’t use blame and judgement in your open and honest communication. Do use facts and feelings. Blame and judgement depress performance and cause fear.
Don’t add to their stress with drama. Everybody gets how important this is. Find something positive to focus on and head in that direction.
Don’t forget that in the end what you will get from practicing positive leadership is more loyal paying customers. Make sure your focus is on what you can do to make them happy and more engaged with the company.
Don’t forget to be grateful for what you do have. Do show appreciation for all they do.
Okay – you might notice I slipped in the “Do’s” into my list anyway. I’d be remiss if I didn’t.
Wishing you a grateful week!
JoAnna
Are you a source of positive energy for your team? Find out here – http://ecourses.returnonhappiness.com/assessment/
Links used:
http://www.positiveleadershipcoach.com/
