Managers everywhere are under stress. They are asked to deliver more but with fewer resources. They need to meet targets, sort out problems and get the most out of their team (including the under-performers). How can you improve performance in your area? Try getting your team together and asking these questions.

1. What is the most important thing we do? What really adds value for the customer and the organization? Let’s make sure we focus on doing that really well.
2. What should we stop doing? What are the low value activities that are slowing us down? Over time we build up habits, hold regular meetings, file routine reports. Are all of these things absolutely necessary or just nice to have? Let’s get rid of the dross so that we can focus more time and resource on what really matters.
3. What can we automate? Are there activities which would be better handled by an Artificial Intelligence app? This might lead to real productivity gains.
4. What is the best thing about working here? You might be surprised at the answers. Build on them.
5. What is the worst thing about working here? It is the manager’s job to remove obstacles and annoyances but first you have to know what they are. Identify the key hindrances and, if possible, get on with fixing them.

I recommend that you advise your people in advance of the questions so that they have time to mull them over before the meeting. Don’t rush the meeting. Give everyone time to express their views – especially the quiet ones. Take notes and then take action.

—

This post was previously published on Destination Innovation.

***

If you believe in the work we are doing here at The Good Men Project, please join us as a Premium Member today.

All Premium Members get to view The Good Men Project with NO ADS.

Need more info? A complete list of benefits is here.

Photo credit: iStock