The Call

As a leader, you want your team to be happy, healthy and at the very least functioning well in their role.

It is unrealistic to think you can ensure this, but there are some things you can do to help that are relatively simple to start with.

1) A Phone Call

This is not to be confused with a 'stand up' or agenda-driven meeting. I'm talking about an actual dial their number without notice phone call to find out how they are doing. That's all. No promises, no quick fixes or hacks. Listening and compassion. 

Why?

People want to feel seen and heard. It alleviates stress, builds bridges, and reminds us all how human we really are and how hard this time actually is. Showing you understand and are empathetic to their specific challenges is very important in maintaining a strong relationship.

2) Ask The Question.

You sense fatigue has crept in and is taking over your organization's life force. What can you do? What do they need? How can you help? Can we do things differently?  Does everything have to be done now?

Ask them.

Don't make assumptions. Check-in - ask what they need and be straight about expectations and limitations. People like to be told the truth even if it isn't what they were hoping for. They can sense spin a mile away and would prefer to be leveled with. 

Remember: it is not your job to ensure everyone is alright all the time. That is not a metric anyone can achieve. 

Great leaders are able to shift gears and notice when their people need them as fellow human beings. 

A phone call.

A question.

Simple but not easy.