by PN Schiavone

Created on: July 06, 2009   Last Updated: July 13, 2009

Many managers are looking for ways to get better results in their business endeavors. It is all a matter of focus. What you focus on is the key. Managers need to come to the realization that they, by themselves, cannot achieve better results. Working through people is the key to successful management. Managers should focus on the following areas to attain the goals of their department or business segment.

Foster a learning environment:

Be enthusiastic about the training process. The fact is that better trained employees achieve superior results, when compared to their untrained counterparts. Training is an ongoing process. A manager needs set aside time for coaching and teaching. All employees should be implored to learn new skills, and help teach the skill's that they have mastered. This helps build a more cohesive team.

Observe your area and take action:

Stand back and really look at what is going on in your department of area of influence. If and employee is not producing, take the time to find the real cause of the problem and look for ways to correct the issue. Most of the time issues with the system create blocks for employees to complete their tasks. Be willing to ask questions about the problem and use the feedback to make corrections. It is important to do something to correct the issue. Finally, track results of your changes. If it does not work find another solution.

Correct Behavior:

Employee behavior can have a negative impact on outcomes. When you find a team member's behavior in need of changing, be prepared for about 3 months of patient coaching. Changing behavior can be one of the hardest things that a manager can do. Many times managers would rather fire a employee with a behavioral problem instead of trying to change it.

Utilize system improvements:

Ensure that any improvements are quickly incorporated into the system or process. This is where the circle becomes complete. Improvements and changes have to be taught to the employees. You will need to retrain employees for the new improvement. After training, a manager will have to observe to make sure it is becoming habit. Finally the manager will have to correct behavior until the employees have incorporated the changes their routines.

Serve your employees:

Give your employees the tools to do the job. You would not send an employee to paint a wall without a paint brush. Managers ask employees to do jobs all the time without giving them what they need. Great leaders serve their subordinates.

When managers follow the suggestions above, they will find their focus. Better results will follow and employees will be happier. It is all just a matter of FOCUS.

Learn more about this author, PN Schiavone.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.