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Arcadia Weekly May 07, 2015
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By Heather Backstrom, Ed.D.
Empowering employees expands their skills and capabilities. It alsostrengthens their commitment to the company. Sometimes, though, managers are reluctant to empower their employees fearing loss of control, diminished authority,ordoubts that employees will make sound decisions. But, when done right, the many benefits of empowerment serve as the foundation of organizational success and effectiveness. Here are some tips to empower others.
Delegate Decisions: Consider decisions that can be made at lower levels of the organization and delegate them. Figure out who in the organization possesses the “right stuff” (judgment, skills, expertise) to make decisions and empower them to do so. Show support for their decisions and give constructive feedback along the way.
Share Information: Managers who consistently communicate the good, bad, and ugly about the organization empower their employees with information. This also lets employees see the big picture, including what’s on the horizon in the near and long term. The clearer the picture is to employees, the better equipped they are to perform well and feel empowered. Also, when employees understand the big picture they’re more apt to make suggestions that fit with organizational needs and goals.
Frequent Feedback: Let employees know how they are doing, especially with work assignments and decisions that you have empowered them with. Employees who are new toa project or have been given decision-making authority can benefit from constructive feedback and assurance about their capabilities. Feedback fosters empowerment.
Express Appreciation:Employees who feel appreciated are more apt to perform and contribute at a higher level. Appreciation also helps increase satisfaction and empowerment because employees feel valued. Look for opportunities to express your appreciation for work well done.
Empowerment encourages employees to make decisions and handle assignments that affect the work environment. That’s a powerful thing.
Heather Backstrom is an executive coach, leadership development consultant and speaker. She has a doctorate in organizational leadership from Pepperdine University. She can be reached at www.heatherbackstrom.com.
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