Managers should focus on tasks rather than caring about team members.
As a first-time manager I used to be hugely task focused. I had a young team who enjoyed working hard, delivering great outcomes, and in the bargain learning a lot and growing their careers. One day one of the pregnant girls was pushing herself hard to complete her work needed for the client presentation the following morning. I saw that she was in pain. I spoke to her, understood the problem, and asked her to go home. I took her presentation, completed it, and sent it to the client. Next day I witnessed new energy in the team. People were working with twice the vigor. I realized that they knew I care for them. This helped me understand the importance of caring for my team. Thereafter, I was always concerned about the welfare of my team, understood their challenges, and helped them personally and professionally. This helped me engage my teams and ensure they were high performers.
As per W.E.-Matter research only 1 out of 3 employees strongly believe that their managers care for them as human beings.
Managers must care about their team members as individuals, not just employees. This people-centered approach builds trust, enhances engagement, and improves overall team performance. I can summarize my learning as follows:
1. Build Personal Connections
Take time to know your team members on a personal level. Simple actions like remembering their birthdays or asking about their weekend, help create deeper relationships, trust, and open communication.
2. Offer Emotional Support
Managers should be empathetic to both professional and personal challenges. Encouraging open communication and being flexible during tough times, such as personal health issues or family matters, shows compassion and strengthens loyalty within the team.
3. Ensure Personal Time
Life outside work is crucial. Managers should encourage people to take vacations and breaks from work to rejuvenate. This can prevent burnout and maintain long-term productivity.
4. Support Growth and Development
Caring for team members also means supporting their career aspirations. Offering new challenges, regular feedback, opportunities for skill development, mentorship, and growth shows that you are invested in their future.
5. Celebrate Achievements
Acknowledging major successes and small efforts shows that managers appreciate their team’s contributions. Public praise, personal notes of thanks, or recognition in meetings can go a long way to make employees feel valued.
Conclusion
When managers care about their team members as human beings, it leads to stronger relationships, greater job satisfaction, and higher levels of engagement. A supportive and empathetic environment encourages employees to thrive personally and professionally.
Does your manager care about you?