Revitalize Your Team's Performance with These Key Questions:

You love your team, but let’s face it – they’re just not hitting the mark right now. They’re coming in late, leaving tasks half-done, and not putting in that extra oomph you know they’re capable of. You want a rockstar team that’s all-in and ready to crush it!

So, what’s the deal? Is it motivation? Burnout? Frustration? Maybe they’re confused about what’s expected, or their talents aren’t fully tapped. Let’s figure this out and turn things around. Here are some key questions to ask your team to help pinpoint the issue and get everyone back on track:

1. Clear Expectations:

Do you know exactly what’s expected of you in your role? Can you see what "great" performance looks like and how you contribute to the team?

• Example: Do you know you’re expected to complete the daily reports by 5 PM? Do you see how finishing this on time keeps our projects moving smoothly and clients happy?

Story: I once worked with a team where the sales targets were always missed. When I dug deeper, I found that the team didn’t have a clear understanding of their daily goals. Once we set specific, measurable targets, their performance improved significantly. One team member said, “Now that I know what’s expected, I feel more focused and driven to hit my targets.”

Why it matters: According to a Gallup survey, only about half of employees strongly indicate that they know what is expected of them at work. Clear expectations are crucial for performance and job satisfaction.

2. Engagement and Motivation:

Are you feeling stuck or bored with your tasks? What parts of your job get you excited, and what parts make you want to hit the snooze button?

• Example: Do you find yourself dreading the repetitive tasks each day but lighting up when there's a chance to work on creative projects? Let’s figure out how to balance the routine work with more exciting challenges.

Story: I once worked with Sarah, a marketing specialist who was incredibly creative but was spending most of her time on repetitive data entry. She was starting to feel disengaged and her performance was slipping. During a check-in, she confessed, “I feel like a robot. I miss the days when I could brainstorm and create new campaigns.” We restructured her role to include more creative projects and reduced her data entry tasks. Within a month, Sarah’s energy levels soared, and she brought in two innovative campaign ideas that boosted our brand's visibility. She told me later, “Having the chance to use my creativity again has reignited my passion for my work.”

Why it matters: According to a Gallup survey, only 13% of employees worldwide are engaged at work. Finding and addressing the root causes of disengagement can dramatically improve motivation and productivity.

3. Burnout and Well-being:

Are you feeling burned out or overwhelmed? How’s your work-life balance? What can we do to support you better and prevent overextension?

• Example: Are those late nights catching up to you? Are you feeling like work is spilling too much into your personal time? Let’s talk about balancing the load and finding ways to recharge.

Story: I once coached a manager who was working late every night and weekends. He was clearly burning out. We implemented a strict no-work policy after 7 PM and introduced flexible hours. Within weeks, his productivity increased, and he was much happier. He said, “I feel like I have my life back, and I’m more productive during my work hours.”

Why it matters: The World Health Organization classifies burnout as an occupational phenomenon, emphasizing the need for organizations to address it proactively. A study by Deloitte found that 77% of employees have experienced burnout at their current job.

4. Utilizing Strengths:

Are your skills and strengths being fully utilized? Where do you think you could shine more or feel more challenged?

• Example: You’re amazing at data analysis, but are you stuck doing too much admin work? Let’s find more opportunities for you to dive into projects where your analytical skills can shine.

Story: I had an employee who was incredibly talented at graphic design but was bogged down with administrative tasks. Once we shifted her focus to design projects, her creativity flourished, and the quality of our marketing materials improved dramatically. She told me, “I finally feel like I’m doing what I’m good at and what I love.”

Why it matters: Gallup's research shows that employees who use their strengths every day are six times more likely to be engaged at work.

5. Feedback and Communication:

How do you feel about the feedback and communication in our team? What can we do to improve so everyone feels heard?

• Example: Are you getting the feedback you need to improve and feel appreciated? Do you feel like your ideas are heard during meetings, or are they getting lost in the shuffle? Let’s ensure everyone’s voice counts.

Story: In one team, employees felt their ideas were often overlooked. We established a weekly feedback loop where everyone could voice their thoughts and suggestions. This simple change made a huge difference. One team member shared, “I finally feel like my input matters, and it’s motivated me to contribute more.”

Why it matters: According to a study by Officevibe, 65% of employees said they wanted more feedback.

6. Professional Development:

Are there growth opportunities you’re missing? What training, resources, or experiences would help you feel more engaged and empowered?

• Example: Are you itching to learn more about digital marketing but haven’t had the chance? What training programs or courses would help you feel more empowered in your role?

Story: I had a team member eager to learn more about digital marketing, but she never had the opportunity. We enrolled her in an online course, and she later led a successful digital campaign. She told me, “The opportunity to learn and grow has reinvigorated my passion for my work.”

Why it matters: LinkedIn's Workplace Learning Report found that 94% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their career development.

Let’s dive into these questions, find the root of the issue, and get your team back to being the unstoppable force I know you can be!