Part 5 of 6, Sheri Bender, Pulse HR Solutions, LLC

💥Strive for a Collaborative Environment

To create an open environment where team members can continuously improve, provide training on providing feedback. There is a simple equation that works well for most: when you do 'x' this is how it makes me feel and, in the future, I would like for you to do 'y'. This statement shares the impact that one person's behavior had on you, and how it made you feel.

This approach removes acquisitions and blame. Managers can lead the way by welcoming feedback and seeking feedback from direct reports often. Even more, when you receive feedback, put that valuable input in to use and when applicable, make change or ask for more information. When employees see you (as the leader) embracing this process, they will be more likely to follow your modeling and feel more comfortable with feedback. This can create a safe space for collaboration and remove silos.

Consider various team building activities so that co-workers can get to know each other. This is important whether you work in a virtual or traditional work setting. Over the past few years, work routines have likely shifted, and work styles may have changed so it is important to allow time for the traditional 'water cooler' conversations to happen, even if this is planned during working hours.

Some may think this is time wasted but it is actually time invested and can provide lanes for future collaboration. It may also be meaningful to ask the team what they would value to create space for increased collaboration.

💥Set Goals to Strengthen Purpose and Transparency

So that employees feel connected to purpose, it is important to collectively set goals that contribute to the success of the organization's mission. To achieve high-productivity, organizations should be aware of the relationship between people and technology.

With many generations and work styles in the workforce, this may require various levels of support to ensure organizational success and comfort. Some individuals may be fearful as technology continues to replace traditional roles; so, it is important to educate on the benefits of process improvement and the interconnectivity of roles and goals to ensure company longevity.

Some methods to consider ensuring these conversations occur on a regular basis:

• Regularly seek employee input and feedback regarding goals, objectives, and training needs to ensure success;

• Hold departmental meetings to share progress towards goals;

• Coordinate 1:1 meetings with employees to provide updates on individual goals;

• Ensure transparence so there are no secrets

This is Part 5 of a 6 Part Series on 10 Tips to Improve Workplace Culture and Employee Engagement in the New Year. We will explore more tips next Monday. Follow me for leadership advice.