Expectations and Tools for Leading to Success

I’ve always believed that you can’t be disappointed in someone’s performance if you don’t provide specific expectations for them. One of the most important principles I have learned for leading others is that you must make your expectations known for them to be met. This sounds so simple, yet I have been guilty of not making my expectations clear or even verbalized.

This is a lesson that can be used at work and real life. For example, I would tell my kids to clean their rooms, then get upset because they only picked up their clothes off the floor. That was on me for not clearly expressing what my expectations were: I want your clothes picked up, carpet vacuumed, dresser dusted, and so on.

This concept is even more important and valuable in the workplace. If a report or procedure requires certain elements or steps, or you want it to include certain components, you need to make those known to those completing the project. Making your expectations clear will prevent confusion for employees and empower them to work independently. Make sure expectations are set early, not mid-project, which could require them to start over. Setting clear expectations can also eliminate micro-management on your part. Remember – no one can read minds, so making your expectations known can save all involved a lot of time and energy.

Another thing I truly believe empowers employees is providing the tools necessary to do the job. Tools can take the form of education, resource materials, software, hardware, etc. I learned this lesson after many failed attempts at training staff members on a specific topic, then expecting them to perform without error. The tools of education and training are the most important – however, those alone may not be enough. Resources to supplement that training such as reference materials, cheat sheets, or flow charts that can be easily accessed when they are performing the task/procedure allow them to be successful. These tools may be something they use every time they perform the task, or a tool that once successfully used many times, is kept for reference only.

Tools such as the proper equipment or software are invaluable to ensure the success of your team, too. One example of a valuable tool in my office was dual computer monitors. For certain employees this was a game changer, and resulted in efficiencies that weren’t even expected. This tool allowed them to be more productive with their time, as well as reduced printing. When employees seek approval for education or equipment to improve their productivity, I see that as providing a tool necessary to do the job.

Through my career in banking, and even in my personal life, I’ve found that setting clearly defined expectations and providing the tools needed to achieve them will provide the best opportunity to achieve the best possible outcomes. I encourage you to consider these lessons as you grow as a leader to help you be the most effective leader possible.

This Month's Guest Writer

Jacqueline M. Ruge-Perkins
President & CEO
First State Bank of Porter