What your people expect.

As we near the end of the year, many of us will reflect upon the last 12 months. We ask ourselves, “What did I do well?” “What do I need to change in the coming year?” “How can I grow?” But, do we ever stop and ask, “Am I meeting my people’s expectations?” Maybe it’s time we do.

In my experience, the following is a good list of expectations that your people have for you — their leader.
To communicate openly, honestly, and frequently
To be predictable and consistent
To have a plan for their growth
To exhibit self-confidence balanced with humility
To encourage them
To challenge them
To let them know how they are doing
To always recognize their accomplishment
To be decisive and fair
To inform them in advance of changes that will affect them

As part of your personal reflection, it’s a good time for a self-assessment. Take each expectation and objectively rate yourself on a scale of 1-10 (10 being superior). Notice where your strengths and weaknesses are, and put a plan in place to move the needle. We expect our people to deliver on their expectations, let’s make sure we’re meeting theirs.