Here at CS we just finished one of the greatest challenges we have ever adopted. You’ll see this finished piece in a couple of weeks — trust me, we are really excited about this!
Over the past couple of months, and particularly the past couple of weeks, we have pushed ourselves to new levels. This got me thinking about challenges for your team and how challenges can benefit everyone involved.
You’ve probably read about me working at a bookstore when I was fresh out of college — I’ve discussed it a little in previous blogs. It was a short time, but it was a big company and I learned a lot of what-not-to-dos. I learned a little of what-to-dos as well, but these aren’t pertinent at this time.
What I took away most was the value of a challenge. Sometimes, a leader would approach an employee and present a challenge. I heard from several employees that this wasn’t taken in the best light — many took the challenge as their manager didn’t think they were doing enough.
Presenting challenges can be tough, because you aren’t trying to tell your employee they aren’t doing much, but you are attempting to push them to be greater. For some young employees this can be even more of a challenge.
When approaching individual employees, try not to present a challenge. Just ask for a simple task to be accomplished. Say things like, “Do you think you could help us out with this? I need it done as soon as possible, and I know you’ll do it best.”
At that point, not only did you get your employee to jump to it, but you also put a belief in them that they are vital to the team. This will help your company get smaller tasks accomplished on a daily or weekly basis. However, this isn’t exactly the big challenge you are attempting — I know.
Don’t challenge single individuals. Try not to use the term challenge when asking an employee to do anything greater — either ask them to do it, or don’t. But, to get your challenge accomplished, challenge the team.
It’s easier to challenge a group of people, as opposed to one. This is because a challenge taken on by a team provides a support system for the people involved. They will be able to lean on each other and ask for advice and assistance. Define the goal that you are attempting to reach — make sure it has a feasible route and distinct end.
As you challenge your team, make sure you serve a role. Don’t just off a major task for your team to accomplish without you having any part in its success. Regardless of whether you are a CEO, COO, President or board member, you still play a role in the success of your company — working with employees at all levels allows them to see that you aren’t just about the money, but you are a true team player. Employees want to work for team players, just as you want to hire employees that are devoted team players.
A quality challenge will help your company reach milestones and certain goals. However, it also will help build relationships among your team. It will let some people standout, and push others in ways they aren’t typically pushed. Also, you won’t offend anyone’s work ethic with a team challenge, but you will bring the team together in an attempt to reach even further success.
Tyler Montgomery is the Editor of Club Solutions Magazine. Contact him at tyler@clubsolutionsmagazine.com
