Managing workloads can be a challenge for many leaders. You probably have certain staff who are very good at their jobs. Therefore, it makes sense to give them more work.
That decision may actually hurt the productivity of your top performers, possibly leading to a lack of engagement or burnout.
In this episode of our ongoing Productivity Tips for Leaders series, you’ll learn a simple way to consider whether you are overloading your employees with work.
What Productivity Questions Does This Video Answer?
- How can I become a more productive leader?
- How can I be better at managing workloads?
- How can I be less busy at work?
- How can I be a better supervisor?
Video Transcript
Do you treat your top performers like balloons? I’m guessing that you probably have some top performers in your organization. They do great work, so when a new project comes up, you give it to them because they’re good.
The problem is you’re kind of treating your top performers like a balloon. Imagine that this is the average person’s workday. They feel comfortable with that they know they can get things done.
But then you add a little bit more to the job. Okay, they’ll have to figure things out, maybe stay late, come in early but they’ll get the job done.
But then you keep adding one more task and one more task. You figure if the person is really good, what does a little more work mean to them?
Well, it could mean big problems because usually one of two things happens. The first is when you keep giving someone more and more stuff to do, eventually the balloon may pop. The person says, “Hey, take this job and shove it.” They’re out.
The other scenario: The person tries to get all the work done but it’s impossible, so over time, productivity goes way, way down and stuff just doesn’t get done.
Neither alternative is good. So before you add work to the person, need to make sure you check with them to see if it can be done. If it’s possible.
We’re going to have more about this in our next tip. For now, the big point is: Don’t treat your top performers like balloons.
About Ken Okel
Ken Okel works with leaders and organizations to boost productivity, performance, and profits. At conferences, conventions, and company meetings, he engages audiences with new ways to maximize their time at work. To see a sample of his keynote and workshop presentations, visit: http://kenokel.com/video.html.
