What do you do if your real estate team members are not taking on responsibilities?

As a leader, we are responsible for meeting one-on-one with each team member and understanding what matters to them. One team member may be in the stage of their life where they need more family time and the other may be interested in making more money to buy a home. Understanding your team member's why and life goals is important. When you help guide them toward a plan with actionable and repeatable steps it will result in them achieving their goals. When a team member falls behind on their responsibilities, leaders should find out why and remind them that by sticking to their plan, they will achieve their goals. Revisiting goals and encouraging your team members are ways to become successful together.

Addressing the issue of real estate team members not taking responsibility involves a multi-faceted approach. Clearly define the areas where responsibility is lacking and the impact it's having on the team and business.

Identifying the problem is essential. Determine whether the problem is misunderstood roles, a lack of skills, low motivation, or a lack of interaction. By addressing the root cause, specific solutions can be implemented to empower team members and enhance performance overall.

Have a candid conversation with the team members to discuss the observed issues. It's important to listen to their side and understand any underlying cause. Ensure that each team member understands their roles and the expectations associated with their responsibilities.

Clearly communicate your expectations regarding roles, tasks and responsibilities. Ensure each team member understands their duties and the importance of fulfilling them. Open channels for questions and feedback to ensure clarity and alignment with team objectives.

Sometimes, a lack of responsibility stems from a lack of support or resources. Make sure team members have what they need to succeed. Set up regular check-ins and progress reports to hold team members accountable for their tasks.

I recently re-read the 4 Disciplines of Execution and one of the 4 is to keep a Scoreboard. That way the entire team is aware of where everyone on the project is at, and that spirit of competition is sometimes very motivating.

If the issue is due to a skills gap, provide training opportunities to help team members grow. Recognize and reward responsible behavior to encourage a culture of accountability.

Lead by Example: Demonstrate the level of responsibility you expect by being a role model for your team. Reevaluate Team Structure: If certain members consistently fail to take responsibility, it may be necessary to consider restructuring the team. Seek External Advice: If internal efforts don't yield results, consider consulting with a professional coach or business advisor. Remember, fostering a culture where everyone takes ownership of their duties is key to a successful real estate team.