Ever watch an old cartoon where the character is intimidated by a scary boss? These shows might be comical, but the reality of a situation like that is awful. Don’t let yourself become the ‘scary boss’ character in pursuit of keeping up the appearance of a strong leader. Instead, show your power by demonstrating how much you appreciate and care for your team. Don’t know where to start? Keep reading for ideas on how to better display your regard for your employees.
Table of Contents
Acknowledge Challenging Times
An unfortunate part of being human is going through difficult experiences from time to time. This might be a tough breakup, death in the family, financial troubles, or mental health struggles, just to name a few examples. Sometimes these challenging circumstances can make daily tasks — like going to work — even more wearisome. However, there are steps you can take to help make this journey a little easier.
It’s important to recognize when employees are going through something painful, and extend a gracious hand. Allow time off and extensions along with offering your support and a listening ear. Perhaps let them work remotely while they continue to grieve so the transition back to work isn’t so harsh. Additionally, consider sending sympathy gifts to show how much you care and value their wellbeing. Receiving a gift or even just your compassion can make a difference in that person’s life.
There’s nothing unprofessional about being courteous and empathetic toward employees going through arduous times. In fact, this will demonstrate that you appreciate them as individuals, not just as workers.
Provide a Safe Space
Simply being a welcoming person can show that you care in your professional setting. This is especially true as a leader in the workplace because you’re in charge of controlling the environment. Working in a tense, unwelcome atmosphere will only add to people’s stress and make it seem like you don’t care much for your workers.
To fix this, create a safe, welcoming environment for all employees to feel at ease and appreciated. Be sure to responsibly address workplace disagreements and investigate accusations seriously. Your employees need to know you’re on their side and willing to listen to any complaints or concerns.
Additionally, embody a safe space yourself by always being friendly and staying reachable. Answer messages promptly, make your office inviting, and encourage employees to speak their mind to you. Sometimes all it takes to show you care is to simply be there and be willing to listen and help.
Provide Flexible Working Options
With modern technology comes more opportunities to be flexible with your workers. Some companies now even allow for completely remote work. While this might not be an option for your business, making changes to be more accommodating is a good idea. This can help with retention and employee satisfaction while also showing you’re being considerate of everyone’s unique circumstances.
Contemplate allowing a certain amount of remote work days per week. For example, you could grant two days of remote work every week, with the other three required in the office. Or, you could offer half remote days for when employees have doctor appointments or have to pick up kids from school. This way, they’ll still be partially in the office, but won’t have to worry about leaving and coming back. Being accommodating like this will demonstrate your care for your employees’ well-being because it respects their lives outside the workplace. It also shows that you trust them to manage their tasks.
Recognize Accomplishments
When someone achieves an important goal in their life, it’s normal for friends and family to celebrate with them. Maybe you’ll get together for a meal, go out for drinks, or toast over a cake. While a co-worker or boss isn’t the same level of relationship, you can still show your support in a similar fashion.
To remain professional in this celebration, getting drinks after work like casual friends do isn’t the best idea. Consider throwing a mini office party instead to celebrate the employee’s success. If you don’t have the time or resources to spare, try sending out a congratulatory email for all staff to see. It’s not quite a party, but this act still acknowledges an accomplishment in front of everyone.
Moreover, this goal that was achieved doesn’t have to be strictly work-related, either. Celebrate marriages, graduations, pregnancies, or first time home purchases. Spending the time to acknowledge these personal accomplishments will show you care for your team, even outside the office.
Offer Mentorship
When holding a position with some level of authority, there will be many people who look to you for guidance. Whether this is extra help during training or mentorship for advancing one’s career, make yourself available. As a leader, it’s your responsibility to give your employees the tools to succeed.
This is especially true if you have younger workers who are new to the professional scene. They will likely be most willing to look for advice and constructive criticism as they start their careers. These are also the most likely to get vulnerable and want reassurance in the workplace. Remember how scary it was when you started your job — someone having your back can take some weight off your shoulders.
Giving advice is a great way to show you care in a professional manner — when this advice is sought after. Unwarranted recommendations can seem imposing or controlling, so don’t give your two cents without a request. Make sure you listen to your team’s needs.
Wear It on Your Sleeve
Don’t be afraid to go the extra mile to show your employees how important they are. As a leader, it’s your responsibility to make sure everyone feels appreciated and their concerns acknowledged. So, remember to be there for them and display proudly how much you care about their well-being. You might not realize how much of a difference it can make in someone’s life, so it’s definitely worth your time and effort.