Managers Are Exhausted: Four Questions That Might Just Save You

If you are a manager on the brink of despair, here are four questions that may just save you from imploding.

1. Have I Given Clear Instructions?

One thing about people is guaranteed — you will have no idea what they are really thinking. Words can be ambiguous and misinterpreted, so use all the communication tools in your arsenal to paint a picture of what success looks and feels like.

If the task at hand is complex, a coaching conversation is a wise approach to get buy-in and develop accountability. Ask your staff to mirror back what success looks like and the approach they are going to take.

2. What Needs to Be True?

One of my favourite questions. You can set the task to perfection — but does your team have the skills, resources, time and ability to make it happen?

Stay close to your team and understand their strengths and limitations. Build on their strengths and you'll find productivity builds with it.

3. Am I Providing Effective Feedback?

This is a big one. Whether you are praising or correcting, feedback is crucial and most effective in real-time. If you are in tune with your team then feedback is just part of your day — both giving and receiving.

4. Am I Focusing on Outcomes?

Your employees may work in a style that's different to yours. That's more than OK if the results are happening. The first three questions will enable this — and you will be free from micro-managing.

The Holy Grail

The holy grail is when your employees can see their tasks are clearly linked to the organisation's vision. That's what meaning and purpose in your work actually is. It provides energy and motivation.

We all deserve meaning and purpose in our work — including our managers.