What’s Going On?: Exploring a Shift in Your Team’s Behavior or Performance
Have you recently noticed subtle changes in your team’s dynamics, behavior, or performance? It might be time for the “What’s Going On?” conversation, the third in the Five Tough Talks series. This discussion is vital for leaders who notice potential issues but find it challenging to address them effectively.
Identifying the Shifts
Shifts can manifest in various ways:
Behavioral Changes: Maybe a team member who was punctual begins arriving late, or a usually vibrant colleague becomes withdrawn. These shifts, while noticeable, are often overlooked until they compile into bigger issues.
Performance Trends: Perhaps you observe a team member missing deadlines or a drop in the quality of their work. Such trends can signal deeper issues that need addressing.
Relational Dynamics: Changes in how team members interact with you or each other can indicate underlying tensions. For example, a team member who stops contributing in meetings but speaks negatively behind the scenes might be experiencing a disconnect.
Ignoring these signs can lead to misunderstandings and a deterioration of team dynamics. This is why initiating a “What’s Going On?” conversation is crucial.
Initiating the Conversation
Starting this conversation can be tricky. Leaders often begin with a simple "How are you?" only to receive a dismissive "I'm fine." To move beyond these surface-level interactions, it’s essential to approach the conversation with empathy and clarity. Express your intentions openly, conveying your genuine concern for their growth and your value for their contribution to the team. For instance, you might say, "I’ve noticed a few changes in your recent work, and I want to make sure everything is okay because your input is crucial to our team’s success."
The Three Steps to Resolution
Build Understanding: Share your observations without judgment to help the other person see that you are concerned rather than accusatory.
Build Alignment: Discuss the situation openly to understand each other’s perspectives and desired outcomes. This mutual recognition fosters a cooperative environment for addressing the issues.
Build Action: Encourage the team member to propose solutions. This empowers them to take ownership of their improvement and ensures the solutions are realistic and actionable.
The Importance of Regular Check-Ins
The “What’s Going On?” talk should be a regular part of your leadership toolkit. These conversations might be uncomfortable at first, but they are less daunting over time and critical for maintaining an open and effective team environment.
Remember, exceptional leadership is not just about celebrating successes but also about addressing concerns proactively and constructively. By regularly engaging in these tough but necessary conversations, you not only resolve potential issues early but also foster a culture of transparency and continuous improvement.
Reflect and Improve
After each conversation, reflect on how it went. What approach did you take, and how well did it resonate with your team member? What can you improve for next time? Engaging in this reflective practice not only enhances your communication skills but also demonstrates your commitment to your team’s well-being and your growth as a leader.
Bringing up sensitive issues might feel daunting, but remember, the goal is to build a stronger team and support each individual’s growth. With practice, these conversations can transform from a source of stress into opportunities for meaningful engagement and team enhancement.