Setting Expectations: The Cornerstone of Team Happiness

Earlier this week, I read a quote that said, "Happiness is merely your set expectations." Then, I was having breakfast with a younger leader this morning, and we landed on the topic of setting expectations as a leader. Later, while checking LinkedIn's leading articles, I found this same topic featured prominently. So, I thought it would be good to discuss, as connected leaders, what the role of setting expectations is and its impact beyond simply achieving a goal.

In the ever-evolving landscape of work, leaders are continually seeking ways to enhance team satisfaction and performance. A recent post by Cate Chapman, Editor at LinkedIn News, highlights a significant rise in job satisfaction, the highest in nearly four decades. (Article linked below) Yet, this satisfaction doesn't evenly permeate all aspects of work, especially concerning wages, bonuses, and benefits, with notable disparities between genders. This backdrop sets a compelling stage for leaders to reevaluate their approach, focusing on the pivotal role of setting clear expectations.

The Dual Pillars of Expectation: Clarity of Purpose and Direction

Setting expectations as a leader isn't just about defining tasks; it involves two fundamental elements: clarity of purpose and goal setting. Clarity of purpose means ensuring that every team member understands the 'why' behind their work. This understanding aligns personal values and motivations with the broader goals of the organization, fostering a sense of belonging and significance.

Goal setting, or setting direction, complements this by mapping out the 'what' and the 'how.' It involves establishing achievable, clear, and measurable objectives that guide daily activities and strategic initiatives. Together, these pillars not only drive performance but also enhance job satisfaction by reducing ambiguity and frustration, allowing individuals to focus on what they can control and excel in.

Leadership Models, Not Styles: A Blueprint for Success

The discussion around leadership often gravitates towards 'styles' — are you transformational, transactional, or perhaps laissez-faire? However, effective leadership transcends style; it requires a robust model that incorporates key components of successful leadership. This model should serve as a blueprint that includes elements like empathy, communication, adaptability, and integrity.

A leadership model provides a framework within which expectations are set and met. It is not a one-size-fits-all approach but a set of principles that can be adapted to suit different teams and situations. By operating from a structured model, leaders can ensure consistency in their approach, which in turn, reduces uncertainty and builds trust within the team.

The Direct Link Between Clear Expectations and Team Happiness

The link between clear expectations and team happiness is evidenced in the shifting dynamics of workplace satisfaction. According to the insights shared by Chapman, employees with hybrid schedules reported the highest levels of happiness. This could be attributed to clearer expectations around work-life balance and the flexibility to meet those expectations in a manner that suits individual needs.

Setting clear expectations also mitigates the risk of dissatisfaction stemming from unmet assumptions and miscommunications. It sets a clear roadmap for employees, enabling them to navigate their responsibilities with confidence and a sense of ownership.

Conclusion

As the workplace continues to evolve, the ability of leaders to adapt and clearly articulate the purpose and direction of their teams remains crucial. By embracing a leadership model over a mere style and focusing on the dual pillars of setting expectations, leaders can significantly boost team morale and productivity. Ultimately, the happiness of a team is a reflection of the clarity and consistency of its leadership. Implementing a solid leadership model and setting clear expectations are not just strategies for enhancing efficiency but essential practices for fostering a satisfied and engaged workforce.

Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/news/story/happy-at-work-happier-from-home-6018572/