Tactics from school can boost productivity at work, too.
As seen in U.S. News | October 10, 2017
In honor of the upcoming return to school for millions of students, it seems an appropriate time to give credit to the masterful skills of teachers. Some of the best managerial moves closely mirror the tactics used by the best educators to create an optimal learning environment. If you are looking to raise the bar at work, here are three tips that work in the classroom as well as the office.
Say what you expect, for all to hear and in words that are understood. Years ago, as a new classroom volunteer, I watched in awe as my child’s kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Endicott, kept a class of 26 5-year-olds in order. At first, I thought she was just magic – she was very much like Mary Poppins. But after volunteering several more times, I began to observe that she actively worked to get desired behavior. She set the stage before every transition by stating what activity was next and what ideal effort looked like. She didn’t speak until she had everyone’s attention and she selected words and examples that were relevant and understood by her audience. In short, she was clear, concise and specific.
At work, too often managers or co-workers assume someone is on the same page, are too busy to check back with them or try to avoid a possible uncomfortable “level setting” conversation. This is a dangerous way to work and is often the root of many challenges in an office. Employees lack the clarity of what is expected, and wonder why they aren’t being promoted. Co-workers get frustrated when their teammates let them down or negatively impact their performance. And managers miss opportunities to create an environment where workers can excel and feel valued. When you take the time to set expectations and clarify what is needed, you greatly increase the potential for success.
Praise often and in ways that matter to the recipient. Again, Mrs. Endicott was the best at this. She would compliment the whole group on large and small successes. She would also praise individuals as they excelled at their own level. She was keen to notice that while one child might thrive on public praise, another preferred a show of confidence like the assignment to take attendance. It does take more effort, but the impact of customized praise is undeniable.
Many corporations are excellent at creating sales contests and anniversary awards. And while these rewards make great recruiting tools, often it is the little acknowledgments that drive long-term employee satisfaction and performance. As a manager or as a co-worker who needs others in order to succeed, take the time to recognize smaller contributions. Also, look for clues as to what is most motivating for your team. It could be a personal note, a coffee gift card, taking a less-desired task off someone’s desk or a simple “thanks” in the next team meeting. If you are observant and thoughtful, you are likely to see your actions reciprocated.
Sit on the carpet sometimes. When a teacher wants to get the class’s attention, they often move the kids to a brightly colored carpet somewhere in the room. During carpet time, they might review their plan for the day, sing a song or hear a story. While it doesn’t really matter what activity comes next, carpet time signals a change; a change in seating, but also a change in environment, acoustics, expectations and behavior. It also prevents active bodies (and brains) from getting too restless or zoning out if at a desk for too long. And, a teacher can also give and receive better eye contact and engagement.
Now, I’m not recommending that you actually sit on your work carpet. Those commercial-grade floor coverings at your office are likely to have a host of unspeakable things lurking in them. This is a figurative recommendation – change your scenery. Look for (and create) opportunities to connect with your team in different environments. It is easy to be in “drive-by mode” where you walk past someone’s desk with the latest request from your to-do list. Take the time to sit down with a colleague and discuss an upcoming project. Request time with your manager to review how you can make a greater impact in Q4. Go on a walk around the block while reviewing the components for an upcoming proposal. Different environments generate a different response – they invigorate our brains, and move us out of autopilot. They can also provide a protected opportunity for eye contact and active listening (i.e., making someone feel heard and valued). Plus, you might get closer to a snack bar or coffee shop, so that is an added bonus.
If any profession knows how to master attention management, it is those brilliant educators who take our squirmy, digitally addicted little people and teach them how to excel in a room full of distractions. Skilled educators have much to share on how to engage and enable excellence in the workplace. With their tricks and with your kids returning to school, you should be set for a productive fall at work.
