Customers seek value in the products or services they are provided. A leader’s job is to ensure that employees feel valued in their jobs. Unfortunately, 13% of employees are disengaged at work, which represents poorly on the company. Disengaged employees are less productive and are not innovative.
A great leader adds value to people. Investing in your team creates high-performing employees and grows the company from the inside out. Everyone wants to feel appreciated and that their work makes a difference.
Jim Singal, CEO and co-founder of Costco believes that profits will follow when you treat employees and customers. He is more focused on adding value to people by serving them than serving himself or making himself richer. John Maxwell wrote, “Leaders add value by serving others.”
Remember that people are always first when you want to add value to an organization. Leaders need to add value to customers, especially their employees. Too often, leaders and or managers forget that people have a life outside of the job.
How to Add Value to People
- Listen to others
- allow everyone to share ideas and truly listen. Listening is the most powerful tool you have to show others that they matter.
- I was in a committee meeting, and as I was discussing a topic, the people in the room broke out into side conversations before I finished. Under my breath, I said, “well, this proves that no one was listening.” One person heard me comment.
- Being a good listener takes practice every day. It is too easy to get distracted and not give others our full attention.
- Develop Others
- The greatest legacy a leader can leave is developing those around them. Invest in your team.
- Teach others how to be good listeners by being that good listener.
- Educate your team on the importance of communication by being a good communicator.
- Create new leaders.
- Be the Example
- The best way to add value to the organization and team members is to lead by example.
- Be intentional, give words of appreciation, and be willing to do any tasks, even those not assigned.
- See everyone as a #10
- Each team member is unique. Look to see their strengths and the potential they have within.
- If you expect the best from the team, they will work to make it happen.
- o, I have a niece who was crushed if a parent or teacher told her they were disappointed in her. She did not like to disappoint anyone. When we show trust and faith in those around us, whether or not we are in a leadership role, people respond by wanting to be their best selves.
- Encourage Everyone
- We are surrounded by negativity. There is also a lot of positivity around us.
- Use words of affirmation to tell people how great they are. Encourage them when they are having a difficult day. If they are not doing a job correctly takes the time to show them again.
- Remind them of their strengths. Show them that you sincerely care.
Adding value to people is the greatest thing a leader can do. What are some ways you can add value to someone today? Every moment you choose to be a value-adding leader, you will see how rewarding it can be to you and your organization.
By Cheryl Viola, Executive Director, MBA
Luminous Marketing Solutions