2018 Resolutions for Managers

Happy new year! As your team returns from the holiday lull and gets back to work, the first weeks of January are a perfect opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of 2017 and look ahead to how you can make 2018 your company’s best year yet. Every manager knows that good workplace morale is key to a successful team effort, but getting office spirits high–and keeping them there–requires constant attention. Keep these tips in mind as you navigate the new year and you’ll be on your way to another year of success and harmony in the workplace.

It often goes unsaid, but one of a manager’s chief responsibilities is making their team members look good–to clients, to upper management, and to each other. If you have a regular all-hands meeting, take some time to point out a staff member or team who has done particularly impressive work lately. Attach individual’s names to recognition to point out that goals don’t just meet themselves–accomplishments can often be traced to the efforts of specific people, so it only makes sense to give them due credit in front of their peers.

One of the most common frustrations from the rank-and-file in any company is the feeling that things could be improved, if only their ideas were being heard. Those who are closest to the ground usually have the most intimate understanding of problem areas, and often come up with the best ideas for smoothing them out. But too often, once a big project is over, companies move onto the next project before taking lessons from the last one. Take time for team debriefing sessions on a regular basis, when staff are welcomed to point out areas of inefficiency and ideas for improving them. You just might find a few game-changing ideas. And even when you don’t, your team will still have their voices heard, which is hugely important from a morale perspective.

With a manager’s busy schedule, it’s tempting–and often, downright necessary–to handle the bulk of delegation duties via email. And while a congratulatory email to an individual or team for a job well done is surely appreciated, it just doesn’t have the same impact as a face-to-face interaction. Whenever possible, make time to check in with members of your team in person. A smile or some sincere words of encouragement mean a lot, and you’ll find that you get more valuable feedback from these interactions as well!

It’s so obvious that it almost goes without saying…and yet, far too often, we forget to say those simple, all-important words: “thank you.” One of the best ways to show your gratefulness to your team is with rewards for a job well done. Luckily, the universal symbol of goodwill and gratitude is perfectly suited for the workplace: food! Treating your team to lunch is a simple and effective way to show your thankfulness.

Jerry’s Kitchen can help make your team appreciation day a big hit. We specialize in corporate catering for events of all-sizes, from an intimate team lunch to a company-wide bash, and we’re proud to serve something delicious to please every palate, including vegan and gluten-free options. So don’t stress over how to reward your team for a job well done–just pick up the phone and call Jerry’s today!