He nailed it!

In a recent discussion with a client, I asked an important question, “How do you inspire others?”  I was prepared to hear the responses I’ve heard so many times – “Get to know your employees, listen to them, show them appreciation, ask their opinion, be upbeat and engaging…”

While these are all good approaches, this particular client’s answer caught my attention.  His response was simple, and spoken with such ease and confidence:

• Set clear expectations.
• Give your staff the tools they need.
• Provide support when they encounter problems / be available to help mold and shape their decisions.

While his first three points are important, it was his fourth point that struck me as being paramount to successfully inspiring and engaging others:

• Let them know you believe in them!

As the son of a high school football coach, this client saw his dad live out this principle with his players.  He witnessed, firsthand, the powerful results that occur when people truly believe they can succeed.  It is a game-changer!  If people know you truly believe in them, they can surprise even you!

How are you the biggest champion of your team members?  Do they know the amount of faith you have in them and their abilities?

As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Treat a person as he is, and he will remain as he is.  Treat him as what he could be, and he will become what he should be.”