To build a high-performing team, you don’t have to expect 100% effort from your employees all the time. In fact, asking them for less-than-maximum effort can actually lead to increased productivity over time. Here’s how to lead a high-performing team without burning people out. First, create a “done for the day” time. This means setting a reasonable and realistic hard stop for the workday—a collective expectation that it’s time to leave work unless there’s an emergency. If you notice team members online or at the office after that time, you can say something like: “Why are you still here? We don’t stay late here unless there is an absolute emergency. We want you to be fresh tomorrow morning. Please go home.” Next, emphasize that the most effort doesn’t always lead to the best results. To help coach employees to get to and stay in this sweet spot, ask, “What does it feel like to be at 100% intensity?” Then follow up with: “How can you keep this closer to the 85% level to avoid fatigue?” And be sure to lead by example. If your team sees that you abide by these norms, they’ll be more likely to do so themselves. Finally, ask your employees, “How am I making your work more stressful than it needs to be?” Then take the necessary actions to improve upon the situation.
This tip is adapted from “To Build a Top Performing Team, Ask for 85% Effort,” by Greg McKeown
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