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Do your team members really know the way you’re employed? I recently created a resource on “Working with our Leaders” for Lemon light Team members outlining how I wish to work, collaborate and lead. Inspired by Claire Hughes-Johnsonthe previous COO of Stripe, each member of our leadership team now has their very own version of this guide.
When I wrote my profile (which you’ll be able to see Here!), I noticed how much we assume our colleagues understand our work style without ever explicitly communicating it to them. That’s why I imagine every leader should create a handbook to set the tone for effective team collaboration – and what your handbook should include.
Related: Find out what your corporation style says in regards to the way you’re employed – and tips on how to avoid getting in your personal way
Why it is necessary
Creating a “How to Work with Me” handbook is a beneficial exercise for any leader. It provides your team with a transparent framework to know how you’re employed best, thus encouraging higher communication and collaboration. Here are a few of the concrete advantages.
Gain clarity about your personal preferences and inclinations
Writing your handbook is just not only a tool on your team, but in addition a beneficial reflection exercise for you as a pacesetter. You might imagine you recognize exactly how you use, what drives you, and what you expect from others, but until you sit down and explain those thoughts, there could also be stuff you have not fully explored. This process forces you to think critically about your leadership style and helps you discover areas where chances are you’ll be unclear or inconsistent.
For example, chances are you’ll realize that you simply prefer direct communication, but have never clearly explained this to your team, resulting in misunderstandings. Or chances are you’ll realize that you simply value quick decisions, but don’t make this a priority in your day-to-day life. By taking the time to put in writing down your preferences, you’ll be able to lay the inspiration for higher collaboration and construct your self-confidence.
The higher you understand your personal biases, the higher you’ll be able to manage your reactions, make informed decisions, and create a piece environment that’s consistent together with your values.
Set clear expectations for team collaboration
Plus, your team cannot meet your needs when you’ve never communicated what those needs are. A “How to Work with Me” handbook bridges that gap by providing clear, concise guidance that outlines your expectations, preferences, and work style.
For example, in my handbook I explain that if we have discussed something in person and I still owe you motion steps, a follow-up email will ensure I do not miss anything. This may appear to be a small detail, but without this information, team members could have to guess about best practices. These assumptions can result in inefficiencies, misunderstandings, and frustration.
By clearly stating your preferences, you not need to tell your team anything. Employees will then know exactly tips on how to approach tasks, communicate with you, and organize their work in line with your expectations. Everyone knows what is predicted of them. This reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings and makes it easier to get tasks done.
Additionally, setting clear expectations helps construct trust. When your team knows you have taken the time to speak your needs, they’ll feel more confident coping with you. This trust is the inspiration of a high-performing team where everyone feels valued and understood.
Related: The power of clear expectations between managers and employees
Open the dialogue so others can share it
After all, as leaders, we set the tone for the way our teams work and the way people communicate with one another. By creating and sharing your “How to Work With Me” handbook, you not only make clear your personal preferences, but in addition encourage others to do the identical. This can result in a more open, transparent work environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their very own work style.
Imagine if every team member had their very own collaboration guide. This would normalize discussions about individual needs, preferences, and work styles and foster a culture of mutual respect and understanding. When employees talk openly about how they work best, teams can collaborate more effectively and lean on one another’s strengths.
For example, some team members prefer detailed written instructions, while others prefer verbal communication. Understanding these preferences might help with assigning tasks, organizing meetings, and structuring workflows. Encouraging your team to create their very own manuals also builds self-awareness, as they need to take into consideration their very own work style and communicate it effectively.
What have to be included?
When creating your “How to Work with Me” handbook, think in regards to the key features of your work style which may impact your team. For example, my profile includes practical details like how and after I reply to emails, some skilled areas I’m focused on improving, and even my habit of tweaking the design of the Excel spreadsheets I receive (it’s me, not you!).
For example, you may include sections in your communication style, your usual work hours, the expectations of your direct reports, your leadership style, your day by day structure, how you propose to conduct meetings, and the rest which may facilitate smoother collaboration.
Don’t be afraid so as to add a private touch. In my handbook, you will find anecdotes about my hobbies, my dog Oliver, my favorite writer (Augusten Burroughs), and even my scores on common personality tests. Adding a “human” element to your leadership will help your team connect with you on a more personal level.
If you assume your teammates – and particularly your direct reports – already know this details about you, I encourage you to put in writing it down. You could be surprised at what you study yourself and the way much clarity it brings to your team!
Related topics: Why self-reflection and self-awareness are necessary skills for each entrepreneur
