Remedies for the Epidemic of Accountability | Part Six: Engaging for Growth

Leaders often miss crucial opportunities to engage meaningfully with their employees when reviewing performance, primarily due to a lack of knowledge or comfort in handling these sensitive discussions. Many leaders, uncertain about how to balance feedback with encouragement, may default to a more objective or critical approach. The discomfort leaders feel in navigating these conversations can lead to a transactional approach, where the review is treated as a checklist exercise rather than an opportunity for meaningful interaction. 

Reviewing performance is a pivotal moment where employees seek validation and connection. When leaders focus solely on metrics and outcomes, neglecting the human element, employees may feel undervalued and disconnected. This can erode an employee's sense of belonging and loyalty to the organization. Employees need to feel that their leaders not only recognize their contributions but also understand their challenges and aspirations. Without this, there's a missed opportunity to build trust and rapport, which are critical for long-term employee engagement and retention. 

Tune in to find out more about how to engage while reviewing performance. Filled with real-life examples and actionable advice, this episode is a vital resource for any leader navigating these complex responsibilities. We emphasize the importance of leadership training in empathetic communication and emotional intelligence that equips leaders with the skills to conduct these reviews more effectively. Such an approach not only makes the experience more positive for the employee but also significantly enhances the leader’s ability to truly engage with and understand their team. 

If you want to know more about leading effectively, check out our book, "So, You Think You Can Lead?": www.amazon.ca/dp/B07QMVKNSV/