Most people need validation at work. They do not only want to be heard, they also want to know that their contributions are being noticed and they are not taken for granted. This is not because they want attention. Employees need to know that they are relevant and making a contribution to the company they serve. As leaders, we know that a business or company cannot get anywhere without good people. Therefore, keeping them motivated is a leader’s job. Here are some things you can say to them to encourage and motivate your team.
I Understand
A conversation that has the phrase “I understand” demonstrates that the leader is listening to team members. This phrase starter is great because it means that you are validating their needs, feelings or proposals. Using this phrase demonstrates good communication technique and your team will appreciate being heard.
I Trust
Let your team know that you need them and you need their help too. People need space to be creative or use their talents to make accomplishments and contribution. Encourage them by telling them what your goals are and then give them space to that will lead to the desired results. By letting them be creative, you are letting them shine and telling them that you trust them.
I Respect
Respect requires more than lip service but using this phrase starter can help confirm that we respect each other as team members. Use this phrase to highlight a behavior or thinking that you value. Use this phrase to share to your team what you care about so that team members will gain insight to what you value and repeat the behavior in the future.
I Have Time For
Using this phrase during conversations convey to employees that they matter to you. When you tell your team that you have time for what they want to do, you are getting big leadership points. You are telling them that you have time because they matter.
What Do You Think?
It might surprise some employees, but team leaders do not always have the answer and it is not their job to come up with all the answers. Leaders do not withhold answers because they want to. Sometimes, asking team members what they think can lead to better answers, innovation and creativity. When a leader asks a team member what they think, they are prompting critical thinking and encouragement to provide input. By asking these questions, team leaders are developing a culture of trust.
Thank you for/I appreciate you for
Thanking is easy enough but some leaders are not specific on what they are thankful for or what they are appreciating. Feedback is the best when it is specific, timely and actionable. Be sure to say “thank you for (fill with specific behavior or result). Give your thanks you as soon as possible to encourage the team by reminding them why or how that behavior benefited the company or strategy.
How Can I Help You
Supervisors or leaders should not assume that staff will approach them when they need help. Leaders should make it clear that they want to help and asking for help should not be viewed as a weakness. As a leader, you should be up front in the willingness to help team members to foster a culture of learning. It is also a good idea to create an environment where people who ask for help are praised. A leader who is willing to help knows and shows the value of teamwork, solidarity and learning.
