Many managers often confuse the act of setting expectations with merely instructing employees on what to do, and these are fundamentally different approaches. The essence of successful expectation-setting, whether with an individual or a team, lies in achieving immediate agreement, rooted in the belief that what is being conveyed is valuable. Trust is the linchpin for such belief, and to earn it from your employees, you must establish credibility in both results and intent.

This is precisely where the "One Hour of Greatness" program comes into play, advocating for efficiency in achieving excellence. The concept is simple: greatness doesn't require an entire day's commitment; dedicating a brief but impactful moment can yield significant returns.

Let's delve into the process of setting expectations. Prior to articulating your desires, thorough preparatory work is essential. This involves establishing a Roles and Responsibilities matrix, clarifying individual contributions to goals. A Skills Flex Matrix is crafted to pinpoint skill gaps, initiating the training process. Moreover, establishing Reasonable Expectations ensures that work is meticulously planned and executed.

The magic lies in the groundwork preceding expectation-setting. By undertaking these preparations, when you communicate expectations about a project, work, or a new process, the team comprehends the underlying rationale. Adhering to the SMART method further enhances the effectiveness of delivering expectations.

Consistent repetition is the key to success in this approach. For those who find this challenging, create a systematic process. Document it, script it out, and execute it according to the plan. Regular adjustments can be made as needed, fostering a culture of continual improvement.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In this episode, we discuss the importance of huddle meetings to improve employee engagement.

If you want to learn about this, click here.