You’ve seen it, haven’t you? The sign in every restaurant restroom. It’s a good sign, and as a customer, you’re glad to see to it and hopeful that employees do as the sign instructs.
In your business, what are the “musts”, the things that team members must do to fulfill not only your expectations but also those of your customers and their co-workers? What must they do to contribute to a results-oriented workplace, a workplace that’s a great place to work? Here’s my list.
Team members must…
- Be competent. And, you’re the leader or business owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure they have the skills they need to be successful.
- Be cooperative. They must be good at working with and getting along with co-workers.
- Focus on the needs of the customer, not on their personal needs or agendas.
- Be plugged in, engaged in the goals and objectives of the business.
- Enjoy their work. If they don’t, they’re in the wrong job.
- Be accountable. Perform at their best on a daily basis, not just when they feel like it.
- Wash hands … and put on a smile before returning to work.
If your team members are unaware of your expectations, perhaps it’s time to have a team meeting and talk about the “musts”. Very often expectations are assumed but not communicated.
Better yet, collaborate with your team to come up with the “musts” that will bring success to your business, organization, or practice and enjoyment to the workplace. When team members become contributors, they are far more committed to the outcome. Listen to them. Their fresh perspective or even seemingly crazy ideas may be just what your company needs – a new “must”.
Try it! It’s an important step in taking your team from “OK” to “Awesome” and having more great days at work.
Copyright Julie Alexander, 2014
