How leaders can help unlock the potential of employees

Leaders who have just assumed a new leadership role should start by listening to employees, rather than trying to align everyone with their vision.

According to Kent Ingle, President of the Southeastern University in Florida, leaders should ask employees what they love about the organisation and what they would like to see in the next five to ten years.

He added, “When you listen to your employees, make sure you are actively hearing what they are saying, taking notes and responding to their input.”

Leaders also need to place employees in roles that complement their skill sets. “As you look for which people are right for which role, seek to understand how each employee is wired. How will they thrive within your organisation? What steps can you implement to develop their talent and prevent them from remaining stagnant? The goal is to help them feel valued, respected and a part of the overall success of the company,” Ingle explained.

READ: Three factors that may be pushing your employees out the door

Lastly, invest in the success of employees because organisations can only grow if employees are thriving. Employees are more likely to be engaged when they feel their voices are heard, have development opportunities, and understand what their role is, Forbes reported.

“When you invest in your employees, they invest in your organisation because they feel like they belong,” Ingle concluded.