How to Re-Energize your Team!

Now that turkey time is over and the push is on to reach year-end goals, don’t panic. Here are some tips to prevent indulgence in family and fun, outside stress, or general lack of focus from loosing momentum toward a strong finish.

5. Re-Establish Goals and Expectations. Re-engage your team in conversations about what really needs to be accomplished before the end of the year. Don’t assume everyone has their eye on the same goal. Make sure expectations are clear and priorities are well defined. This will alleviate potential conflict and tension while helping your teams end the year on a high note and fueling higher energy levels in the New Year.

4. Provide Personal Guidance: Make yourself available to your team members to problem solve, listen and provide feedback. Everyone is on their own path and may need you for different reasons as they navigate through a potentially stressful time. Show them that you care and that you will adapt, lead and support without compromising quality results.

3. Explore Creative Alternatives: Situations may shifts and resources may change. While you might find it easier to solve for them through quick decision-making it, it takes away the team’s ownership for problem solving which becomes a de-motivator over time.  Keep the lines of communication open and be willing to offer or help the team come up with their own innovative a ways to meet goals. Be willing to explore everything from schedule changes to changes in the scope of work.        

2. Infuse the Fun Factor: Don’t sacrifice the opportunity to laugh and enjoy the season. Go ahead and have the gingerbread house building contest or the ugly sweater bowling tournament. Your team is working hard and should find ways to celebrate with each other. But, don’t just stand on the sidelines, use this time to show your appreciation and recognize their contributions.  

1. Model the Way! Keep your inner slacker at bay. Your position as a leader increases the expectations others have of you and the attention they give to your behavior. Take care of yourself and use your vacation days, and while at work, be very intentional about how you spend your time, the quality of your conversations, and the standards you set for your work.

Use these ideas to plan for the success of your team. Support them and inspire their work through conversation, innovation, encouragement and by serving as a role model. Your reputation as a leader who can keep a team focused and productive during times of distraction and stress will serve your company and your career well.