Here is what I’ve learnt over the years on how to create that sense of belonging with my team.
1. Recognize them. I give them them the credit when it’s due, especially in front of the senior management team. Also when I go to important meetings, I invite you to show how important they are.
2. Empower them. Especially to the SMEs, I create opportunities for them to share their knowledge with the wider community in training sessions, not just within the team. I delegate important tasks to show trust. That includes empowering them to make decisions.
3. Grow them. To greater heights. And it might not be within our own department. We cannot be selfish. If our department is not big enough for them, then we need to show them where else they can go within the organization, rather losing them to competitors.
4. Know them. This is my favourite. Who do they stay with? What are their kids names? What do they like to eat? Which KPop star will send them tingling? I also spend extra time personal notes to them, something I’ve learnt from Adrian Gostick & Chestor Elton, the authors of The Daily Carrot Principle. Be as specific as I can, creating that Personal Experience.
Everybody wants to appreciated. Seen to add value. To be noticed. And belong.
Bimbo
