It’s not uncommon for a leader to spend time looking for workplace problems with employees. Whether it’s in a big factory floor or a high rise office, leaders will notice mistakes or things that are being done the wrong way.
Rather than saying nothing, a correction is offered. This is good, as you don’t want problems to define your productivity and success.
While these may be necessary corrections, do these moments hurt overall business innovation? And what other challenges come from looking for workplace problems?
You’ve Trained Them Not to Think
If, whenever employees see you, you’re telling them what they’re doing is wrong, then they may not think about new ways to do things. Innovation rarely grows in an environment that’s full of constant corrections.
Is Looking for Workplace Problems About Poor Training?
When the same mistakes are committed again and again, then is it possible your training or some part of a process is the root cause of the issues? Step back and consider if there is some vagueness in your instructions.
Along those lines, do you explain why things need to be done a certain way? That may unlock employee understanding and better execution.
Look to Inspire Employees
Especially with your more experienced employees, look to inspire them to find solutions to common problems. Instead of constantly offering corrections, say, “This mistake seems to happen a lot? What are a couple of ways we can prevent it?”
The employee may have some good solutions that are top of mind. But that person may not share them, unless they are asked. They may also feel that their suggestions are not welcome or will be immediately shot down.
As a leader, while you may be good at a looking for workplace problems, consider investing more time in inspiring your team to discover new solutions. It’s an incredible burden for a leader to think they have to come up with every answer.
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