Confident people are self-motivated, have strong self-esteem, and are willing to take risks. But even the most confident individuals are only human: they will occasionally falter, especially during times of change or crisis. As a leader, you have to be ready to build confidence among all your team members consistently.
Boosting employee confidence also helps boost company profitability – as confident people are better equipped to tackle creative problem-solving and provide high levels of customer service.
Give your employees the confidence they need to succeed, so they can realize their career and life aspirations and grow with your organization at the same time.
There is no “I” in team.
You’ve heard the adage, “the customer comes first.” It’s true – but keep in mind that your employees are your most important customers, so take care of them, and they’ll take care of the rest.
- Get to know your employees as people. Talk to them about their personal lives, priorities, and concerns that may be holding them back. By discussing deeper issues, you help people achieve a mindset shift that makes them less hesitant and more creative and innovative.
It’s personal.
You can’t take care of someone’s needs unless you know exactly what they are. Depending on the individual employee, they may be searching for autonomy, money, flexibility, career growth, a social mission, or leadership opportunities.
- Create a culture of two-way communication. This is the first step in empowering people to be their best selves. Listen actively to what people have to say. Respond at the right time and in the right way.
- If an employee makes a suggestion or suggests an improvement, don’t leave things hanging. Act upon this feedback, whether it means pursuing or implementing their idea or offering constructive information on why it’s not feasible. Keep those communication lines open.
Show your appreciation.
A lack of recognition or appreciation can be a death knell for confidence. Managers should consistently express thanks for jobs well done.
- Build confidence – and celebrate wins – in increments. Step by step, encourage, and enable people to stretch, succeed, and grow.
- Create small victories. Big stretch goals can be intimidating. Help employees break large tasks into smaller, more manageable “bite-sized” pieces. Then recognize each mini-goal reached along the way, and make a big splash when an entire project comes to a successful completion.
- Timing is everything. Get in the habit of complimenting outstanding performance as soon as you become aware of it. Consider implementing a “caught you in the act” recognition program, whereby employees are given incentive awards on the spot.
The workforce development experts at PrideStaff Modesto can partner with you to create a winning strategy for building confidence, morale, loyalty, and productivity within your team. Read our related posts or contact us today to learn more.
