You’ve probably heard the expression before that your team is only as strong as your weakest link. This is especially important to keep in mind when it comes to companies and organisations. After all, employees are the building blocks of your business. The stronger the team you’ve assembled, the more robust that business will be. If that team falters in any way, however, it can have consequences that impact the company as a whole.
In fact, a recent report asserts that poor customer service has led 89% of consumers to stop doing business with a company. This isn’t surprising, considering the fact that your employees essentially represent your organisation in the way a brand representative might. They reflect the culture and values of your company, so if they’re unhappy or seem ill-equipped to complete their jobs satisfactorily, that will be a reflection on your company more than anything else.
That’s why it’s so important to invest in your employees and provide them with the tools and training they need to succeed in the workplace. When you empower them in this way, it can lead to increased motivation on the job, as well as overall satisfaction with that job, and happy employees certainly make for a more positive and functional working environment.
So what are some ways to empower your employees?
Show appreciation.
Do you regularly thank your team members for a job well done? Everyone likes to feel appreciated and everyone likes to know that they’re a valued member of a larger whole. It’s a validating experience to be shown appreciation. Whether it’s a small note, a gift card, or simply a word of acknowledgement in your next team meeting, be sure to recognize your employees for excellent work. It’ll boost their confidence and create a desire in them to continue going the extra mile.
Give ownership.
Do your employees currently have the power and freedom to make important decisions in your business? Believe it or not, this feeling of autonomy makes a world of difference for team members. When employees feel like they have ownership of a project, their sense of confidence, responsibility, and creativity increases. Allow your employees to step up to the plate from time to time so that they have the opportunity to shine.
Promote innovation.
Employees want to feel that their ideas and opinions matter. When given the chance, you’d be surprised by how creative team members can be in solving new challenges and issues that are bound to arise from time to time. Hold regular brainstorming sessions with your team and ask for their ideas and solutions. This equips your employees with a sense of ownership in addition to making them feel pride for the solutions they develop.
Encourage interaction.
Sometimes, employees may feel like disjointed parts in one big machine. It’s important to regularly bring your team together to connect and engage with each other. You can do this through special team-building exercises or you can even hold ‘lunch and learn’ sessions during the work day. Such sessions can be very informative, allowing your team members to grow professionally, but can also create a space that allows your employees to truly feel like a team and get on the same page with each other, which makes for better working relationships and a stronger company.