Each and every company has their chain of command, something generally close to this: The CEO, president, vice president, executive manager, general manager, assistant manager and then everyone else. But with all the higher levels you may ask yourself what their job is. What is the job of a leader? Because after all, that’s what they are.
The most important purpose of every leader is to keep the workforce re-charged each and every day. So maybe that sounds a little cliché, but when you think about it, it’s right on point. Think of how much energy you spend each day at work, how tiring work is some days. It makes sense for leaders to assure that their employees have the energy necessary to perform. If you’re only looking for C+ work, then this may not be relevant to you. But if you’re expecting A work, then as a leader you need to create enough energy for employees to care about their work. High level performances require high levels of energy.
The true cause of energy drain in the work place mostly has to do with all of the troubles we come across during our shift. Whether it’s dealing with a difficult customer, a lack of recognition in the work place, or maybe even minor errors made by workers, they all add up to a feeling of exhaustion and can tire even your best employees.
Leaders need to step up and re-charge their workforce during times like these.
A good leader needs to be aware of what is happening around him/her. These leaders are always looking for issues because they are involved directly with employees and customers (not sitting at a desk).
These observations can then be used to apply instructions to employees. For instance, if an employee is having difficulties doing the work they’ve started and the leader sees a better way of finishing the task the leader will go to that employee directly and help them to be more efficient. In the end this eliminates wasted money, energy and aggravation from everyone involved. Coaching is another important task of a leader. This means throughout the day you are helping employees understand how their work directly contributes to the company and helps as a bigger picture. This big picture sets a goal to achieve, which boosts morale and energy.
Lastly, giving praise is a very important part of being a good leader. Not that praise should be given when it isn’t earned, but when it is deserved be sure it is given. When an employees has gone above and beyond their job recognize their effort and let them know how appreciated they are.
Through all of these things you will find yourself to be a very good leader. Provide your employees with all the energy you can and in return you will receive a more productive work place.