Appreciation

When's the last time very member of your team heard you thank them for something they are doing well? I know you're afraid that they will slack off if you brag on them. Really? Are you like that? When your boss commends you for something specific that you have done well, do you kick back and slack off?

Of course you don't. The truth is you do the opposite. When others brag about our strengths we try to live up to that. And your team is no different. They will respond positively to your appreciation.

So, write down the names of all your direct reports in a vertical column on the left side of a piece of paper. Then by each name write down specifically what they have done well. When your list is complete then go to each person, one-by-one, and in private and tell them the good work you have observed.
 
You just might be surprised at the difference it makes in your team's performance this week!
 
Be encouraged,
Barry