Relinquishing the reins is always difficult. Parents experience it as their children grow and managers encounter it when their employees do. In both cases, the prospect can be intimidating but the rewards are well worth the initial discomfort.
Good managers realize that in business – unlike life – it is not the journey but the destination that takes precedence. If your employees adopt an unorthodox route to achieve company goals, that experience can be a catalyst for innovation and creativity, which are critical for success. This means accepting a very wide spectrum of work ideologies but a focused result. Three factors make the difference:
- Individual capabilities
- Work ecosystem
- Guidance
Individual Capabilities
When left to their own devices to achieve a target, employees generally fall into two categories: explorers and connectors.
Explorers are naturally curious and prefer to jump right into the action, learning as they go. They embody a trial-and-error philosophy and are not afraid to take risks and fail. Connectors, on the other hand, are more cautious and prefer to consult with others and apply that knowledge to the task. They may be slower off the mark but rapidly catch up using the tried and tested methodologies.
Neither is perfect and each has its advantages. In fact, individuals exhibit traits from both categories as they progress. Be prepared to support them on their journey as they discover their strengths.
Work Ecosystem
Work, play, or rest, our environment contributes significantly to the quality of what we produce and achieve within it. Research suggests that just one in eight workers in the United States fulfill their potential as explorers or connectors. This is arguably related to both the physical and psychological work environment. Tightly designed cubicle spaces can create an atmosphere of conformity where employees feel discouraged from expressing themselves as individuals. Yet, the powerful human propensity for self-expression and creativity is easily revealed. Simple changes like an open office plan and encouragement of new ideas will quickly manifest as real-world results.
Guidance
Freedom is good, but it is best given in stages, especially if it is a significant departure from the previous workplace philosophy. Much of this has to do with encouragement so employees are persuaded to come out of their shells. Choose simple, high-impact goals for the first series of projects and hand over control in phases according to the results.
These strategies combine to draw your people into a work environment they can navigate independently while maintaining harmony with the overall company mission.
Need more ideas to promote independence in the workplace? Please don’t hesitate to contact us at DeSantis Trusted Advisors.
