Do you know what is expected of you every day at work?
Silly question, right?!!
Astonishingly according to Gallup’s research on employee engagement only about 50% of employees strongly agree that they know what is expected of them every day. Managers need to clearly explain to their team what is anticipated. This has a direct impact on employee engagement. Among employees who strongly agree with the statement, “My manager helps me set work priorities,” 38% are engaged. Among employees who disagree, only 4% are engaged.
As an employee if you feel that you are working with no clear direction on what “good” looks like you are probably experiencing frustration at work as well as disappointing reviews. What can you do? You owe it to yourself to approach your manager and start a conversation. Your manager might feel they have communicated their expectations.
“Most employees want to do a good job and contribute to their organization,” said Wayne Hochwarter, of the Jim Moran Professor of Business Administration in Florida State University’s College of Business. “Perhaps it’s overly simplistic, but this can only take place when employees know what’s expected.” Hochwarter went on to say, “It seems the more that communication is needed, the less likely it is provided — no wonder so many employees feel completely lost at work these days.”
As a manager, it is your responsibility to support open communication. You are far more likely to achieve your performance objectives with less obstacles and friction when your team knows where it is going and what part each of them plays to achieve those objectives. I’m sure you have heard the quote – slow down to power up. Make it a habit to check in with your team members on a regular basis to ensure they are on track. Each of your team members should be able to clearly explain their objectives. One positive ‘side effect’: a happy and engaged team.