You’re keen to supercharge your team’s engagement—a catalyst for improved performance and motivation. You’re confident there’s a way forward, but where to begin?
The Power of One-to-One Meetings
Each one-to-one meeting holds the potential to profoundly impact team engagement. When executed skillfully, these interactions yield remarkable returns by fostering team buy-in at both micro and macro levels.
Yet, amid the whirlwind of work’s demands, finding the time to strategize can be a challenge. Here are rapid pointers to kickstart your journey toward enhanced team engagement:
- Three Key Categories: Start with a clean slate and jot down a team member’s name. Beneath it, create three headings: Strengths, Goals, Areas to Develop. How well-acquainted are you with these aspects of each team member’s professional life?
- Preparation Matters: Prior to the next one-to-one, inform your team member of your shift in approach. Let them know you intend to discuss their strengths, goals, and areas for development. Encourage them to reflect beforehand, facilitating a constructive dialogue. Explain your motive—building a stronger collaborative foundation.
- Human Connection First: Dedicate the initial five minutes to forging a personal connection. This rapport-building sets the tone, reminding you both of the vital truth: we’re all humans navigating a shared professional journey.
- Structured Dialogue: During the meeting, focus on each category in sequence. Pose questions like, “What do you consider your strengths?” “What are your goals?” “Where do you aspire to grow?” Embrace silence, letting them articulate their thoughts. Maintain a relaxed demeanor—smiles and relaxed breathing enhance a calm atmosphere, encouraging open conversation.
- Probe for Depth: Seek detailed responses through open-ended queries. Explore their strengths’ application, opportunities for growth, and the relevance of each strength to their role. Delve into the how, when, and where—ensuring you walk away with a comprehensive understanding.
- Meaningful Application: Armed with this insight, moving forward, link each interaction, task, or communication back to their strengths, goals, or development areas. This approach infuses tasks with purpose, fuelling motivation, and validating their significance.
Empowerment through Value
When people feel valued, they are productive contributors to a positive work environment—key ingredients for elevated engagement. By actively recognizing and aligning tasks with their unique attributes, you create a profound sense of worth.
Done well with your team, this can have a ripple effect throughout the organisation as leaders use it with their teams and create a sense of value and worth cascades throughout the organisation.
Worth a try, don’t you think?
Sharon
P.S. Curious to know more about how Executive Coaching can help you improve team engagement? Book a free consultation call now.
