10Eighty partners with Strengths Profile, by Cappfinity, a system which helps individuals, teams and organisations build greater awareness of their strengths and how these can be used to optimise performance and engagement in the workplace.
As we learn to navigate our way around the ‘new normal’ we can all take the opportunity to reconnect our teams in a way that concentrates on building resilience and innovation.
When teams know, appreciate and use their strengths, they are far more engaged, productive and communicate better; whether your teams are continuing to work from home full or part-time, it’s time to focus:
- Hold regular team discussions regarding expectations for remote working
- Maintain a list of actionable tasks to ensure joint accountability
- Review approval processes and governance protocols with teams to mitigate potential risks
- Use video conferencing facilities so that you can see your colleagues, but first confirm if everyone is agreeable to the format
- Be empathetic – you may not know what your team members are going through or how they are impacted by the current state of affairs
Improve relationships
Using a strengths based approach allows leaders to improve working relationships both on a personal and a team level. When you work on the right things with people and have the right conversations, relationships and interactions improve.
Start to think about the team’s next six months and what they want to achieve, as well as what will be necessary. What do you know about your team that you can use to push forward? Understand the strengths and gaps in the team, and who can take what projects forward. It’s vital that each person plays to their strengths to support recovery and innovation so focus on your future growth and developing strengths to support your goals.
Top tips for online meetings
- Use an ice-breaker before you start, to get everyone engaged and ready to participate
- Make time for some social interaction during the meeting as this is what a lot of people miss when working from home
- Acknowledge how hard it has been – it’s frustrating to work as hard as you can and have it go unnoticed. A simple thank-you for hard work and contribution can do a lot of good, especially if you want them to do it all over again.
- Ask what they need – pose the question and then stop talking. Whatever they say, write it down. Be curious, ask for specifics and keep any judgement you feel to yourself. When you have considered the options you may not be able to deliver everything asked for, but try to be honest and upfront about it.
A new way of working
The workforce will need time to adapt to new ways of working post-pandemic. Employees coming back from an extended furlough or remote working may find the physical layout of the workplace changed and their work schedule altered.
Master your team-building skills and you, your team and the work you produce may be the better for it.
