The New Year in full swing. In fact, January is quickly dwindling down … good news for most people, as the days grow longer and, really, how far away can spring be?
But remember: Your goal was to build team productivity in 2014. So it’s time to sharpen your pencil, figuratively if not literally, and make that happen.
Up with People
In trying to underline the importance of people in building productivity, the singing group from the 60s and 70s came to mind. Guess what? They’re still around! And their simple, catchy premise applies perfectly in today’s business environment: “If more people were for people, all people everywhere, there’d be a lot less people to worry about and a lot more people who care.”
Caring means passion about coming to work every day – and maximum productivity is the result of team members being just that: part of a team. From sincere, enthusiastic teamwork comes the perfect balance of creativity and productivity that every business leader dreams about.
- Great ideas without action result in unfulfilled innovation. So, guide your team to make things happen. Give them enough time to develop and nurture ideas, but know when it’s time to move to the “doing” stage.
- Caterina Fake, founder of Flickr and Findery, likens the creativity/productivity balance to one of the world’s great comfort foods: a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. The “peanut butter” on your team are those who work in energy bursts, are highly spontaneous, and sprout ideas constantly. But, they may not follow through or fully execute, so things fall apart. On the other hand, the “jelly” folks make detailed lists and are devoted to executing each task right down to the last excruciating detail, but in doing so, they may miss something critical to success. It’s your job as a leader to make them into the perfect sandwich – to invent and to execute.
More tips on inciting your people to bolster productivity:
- Have regular brainstorming sessions. These keep everyone feeling like integral parts of the group, and keep creative juices flowing. Call your team together for brainstorming at least once a quarter to garner ideas on resolving current issues and to capitalize on opportunities.
- Hold an offsite retreat. This is a proven way to recharge your team, as it takes them away from interruptions and helps refresh thoughts and perspectives.
Maximize Technology
When it comes to increasing productivity, technology is your friend. Having the most advanced tools for the job and knowing how to maximize their capabilities are the first steps to providing consistent quality.
- Speed up your Internet access. This saves time on such key tasks as accessing cloud-based applications, conducting research, sharing files, and communicating with colleagues and customers.
- Enable employees to connect remotely with your network. This way, they have direct access while at home or on the road.
- Hold meetings on the go. Use online conference tools. In addition to sharing presentations, employees can work together more efficiently, either internally or with external stakeholders.
2014 is your year for maximizing productivity – and results. To learn more, contact the team at Employment Professionals Canada today.
