When you create a culture in which people can reach their goals and know their insights are appreciated, you boost productivity, morale, and engagement.
As a strategic communications professional, one of the problems I come across most is that people feel their efforts are under-appreciated and go unnoticed. This leads to a lack of employee engagement, turnover, and stagnant growth. But this does not have to be the case. Enters the efficacy of strategic communication.
Improving your organization’s communications gap helps to create a culture built on authenticity and transparency, as well as boost confidence and productivity. Cultures built on helping people reach their goals and ensure their voices are heard give a feeling of significance, value, and build trust. As a result, people are more concerned for the future of the organization, become more highly involved, and are more enthusiastic about their work.
Here are four tips to put into practice to help overcome the challenges organizations face when it comes to moving their people from simply “putting in their time” to being committed and ultimately increasing growth.
Measure what matters most to your people
High-potential people are usually not satisfied with the status quo. They need ongoing personal purpose and empathy for their challenges, not just professional perks to achieve more for your organization. By encouraging your people’s personal and professional development, they become better ambassadors and leaders for your organization. Help them establish key goals and development plans that are in alignment with their own strengths and experience, as well as with the overall business strategy.
Job tasks that are purpose-driven and rewarding
Challenging your people will be an essential strategy to help keep them engaged and motivated. Like organizations, people are not able to move forward if they don’t grow. But people can’t grow without leaving their comfort zones. When your people are growing they will respond with greater performance and dedication to future success. Help your people to step outside of their comfort zones by establishing goals and expectations that will set their sights on added career and monetary opportunities.
Show people, you trust them
If you want higher performance, trust your people to do their jobs by getting out of the way. Not only will they be empowered by you giving them greater ownership, but it also reinforces that credibility and trust are important in your organization. Give your people more of a voice and use their insight to connect the dots and make better business decisions. Outline your expectations then give your people the autonomy, tools, and support they need to succeed. In short, trust begets trust.
Celebrate your people
The single most thing you can do to boost your people’s confidence is to recognize and celebrate their efforts. When they feel acknowledged for their efforts or work, not only will they be more motivated but also feel appreciated. Recognize your people’s personal and organizational accomplishments so they feel confident in what they do, boost productivity, and build loyalty.
What do you do to encourage your people and help them reach their goals?