As we come to the close of 2015, it is time to reflect on the year and focus on the things for which you are most grateful. Although that might be hard because of the seismic events we experienced. We are still in a rabbit economy, where business hops up and down and we are not sure where it is going to be even a month from now — including the stock market and housing prices.
We have also encountered terrorist threats and transportation shutdowns. Simultaneously, some of you are dealing with downsizing and trying to balance the economic needs of a corporation while maintaining compassion to employees.
Together, this has created a situation in which you need to produce more with less. I believe one of the best traits any manager can have in this environment is resilience — the resilience to overcome challenges and create a positive workplace for everyone.
As managers we are adapting to the rising expectations of our customers while dealing with changes in government and shifting priorities. All of this has made for an extremely stressful year.
Business leaders are reporting that succession planning is still their number one concern. It appears to be getting harder to find skilled people who are willing to take on higher responsibilities and be accountable for achieving the results necessary for a business to remain viable.
In spite of all this, you achieved marvelous results. You completed major projects, you balanced your family and professional life. You kept operations running through snow storms and gale storms, all while respecting the needs of employees and maintaining productivity for the organization.
Now it is time to do one more thing — give your staff a positive pep talk before shutting down for the holidays. Now is the perfect time to look back on 2015 and recognize the accomplishments of your employees. You would not have accomplished what you did without them.
It is important that managers give staff a psychological boost before the holidays. Let them know how grateful you are for their dedication and how much you appreciate their loyalty and hard work.
If you are doing a year-end message, consider including the following:
- Provide a realistic picture of the business environment so they see you are a straight shooter.
- Tell them how much better off your company is than the competition, or other industries.
- Talk about your organization’s great strengths and how together you can build on those strengths.
- Mention the amazing opportunities there will be in the coming year and how you have a plan to capitalize on them.
- Finally, tell your people how important they are to you and to the success of the organization.
Thank you again for being a loyal reader. I wish you a wonderful Christmas season and an amazing New Year! I hope you can all start 2016 full of energy and motivation.
My question for managers this week: “What is your plan to end the year on a positive note so staff will be passionate and eager to return in the New Year?”
