People have a deep desire to feel valued and they need to be shown value in the workplace on a daily basis especially by those in authority. Showing value to your team gives them purpose, belonging and will increase their overall commitment to your cause.
Here are 5 helpful ways to value people:
1. Show interest
Showing genuine interest in someone’s life shows that you see beyond just the work that they do and care about their personal life as well. Ask about their family, children, favorite activities to do on the weekends, etc. This will not only aid in building a personal relationship but will also result in building trust and an environment where value exists.
2. Make Time
Set time aside every week to be present and visible by your team. Even if this means you add a weekly hour to your calendar do whatever it takes for your team to see you interact with customers, peers, upper management and staff. When you consistently model the importance of showing value to others regardless of their status your team will begin to emulate your very actions.
3. Empowerment
There seems to be no limit to what people can do when they know someone is in their corner. May we never underestimate the power of our words and trust in people. Take some time and start small by giving your team members small projects, set your expectations, be clear with what you want to see, encourage them along the way, don’t be overly critical and give them the credit for it in front of others or upper management. It is truly beautiful to watch what happens in an individual when they are entrusted to take a task on and feel empowered and encouraged along the way.
4. Know Their Strengths
Take some time to find out what your team members strengths are and assign them tasks/responsibilities accordingly. I firmly believe that every leader should know their teams strengths and utilize them! Your team will be unstoppable when everyone feels empowered and has a platform to operate in their strengths.
5. Kind Words
Words carry power and can be used to both destroy and build up. Choose to build your team up. Encourage each one you come in contact with, be kind, show genuine support and always take the high road. You have the capacity to shape someone’s life in a positive or negative way. What will you choose?
Kacie Kintz
