While I was thinking what I should write today I got a phone call from my boss, which set the theme for today’s post. Coincidentally, it is closely related to my previous post (video), people matter.
We ran into several issues while getting some well deserved and a bit over due paperwork through certain channels, but it is nice to know that we have internal support at least. Our vertical chain of support is very strong, it’s when we have to work with some horizontal departments (which don’t have insight into our daily operations) that we run into difficulties. This relates to the previous post of “people matter” and goes a step beyond selecting right employees for the job. Having a great manager in place who understands employees, works well with them and is there to provide support in every way possible is the final component in building and sustaining an amazing unit.
Once you have a well functioning team and things are working smoothly it is important to maintain that group and do what’s needed to help these professionals achieve personal and professional satisfaction and recognition. It is the manager’s responsibility to promote their employees throughout the enterprise, fight for more resources and recognize their accomplishments.
Having a great team which is poorly managed will eventually cause one of the two (or both) things to happen:
1. Team will start falling apart (performance wise or literally), and/or
2. The manager will be severely disliked (poor working environment) and in some instances even pushed out.
It is essential to understand that everyone works together towards a common goal. Each of the team members have different rolles and responsibilities, but are equaly important to the success of the team. While a great group of individuals is essential to productivity and efficiency, the significance of a well repected, qualified and knowledgable leaded should never be underestimated. That leader must manage his or her team, focus their energies in desired direction and fight for that team every step of the way.
All managers must understand that once you give up on your team, they will give up on you.