Building Morale By Building People

The best leaders recognize their responsibility to set the tone from the top that people count. They expect their people-building philosophies to be adhered to at every level throughout the organization and they make sure that systems and processes are put in place that help to foster continual growth and well being.

They recognize contributions both formally and informally and, most importantly, the leaders themselves model an environment of growth through actions that demonstrate caring, support, and trust. Here are few easy-to-implement examples of what others have done to set the tone:

1. Care enough to connect. Taking time to talk with people is part of the process, but it is listening that conveys true caring. This listening format gives every associate a chance to talk with him, which provides a chance for managers to listen for important information from which to learn—then lead.
2. Offer self-discovery and coaching programs. We've seen it time and time again. Great organizations really work on proving self-discovery and coaching programs.
3. Do what’s right and tell the truth. What I had to learn early on is what people expect more than anything else out of the leader is honesty. Treat them as adults and communicate.
4. Encourage employees to give of themselves and support their efforts. Encourage everyone to get involved in charitable activities. They get a larger view of who they are to the extent that you are giving to other people, you feel better about yourself.
5. Strive to promote balance. If you don’t have balance, then it affects everything—your personal life and your business life.
   

It doesn’t matter what your industry is, rather it’s private, public, government, nonprofit, or
educational. The point is, as a leader, you become more significant to your role when you
care enough to recognize a nd build others at all levels within your organization. If those at the CEO level can do it, so can you.