ASHLEY NICHOLS, BA, CPHR
VICTORIA – One of the most important aspects of any busi- ness is having a strong team of employees who are committed to the organization’s goals and values. Taking the time to have meaningful conversations is essential to building your team, and in turn building your business.
Meaningful conversations go beyond the typical “how’s your day going?” and delve deeper into an employee’s thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. These connections build trust and rapport between employees and their managers and provide valuable insights into what motivates and drives employees. Insights from these conversations can then be used to coach employees to improve their performance and productivity.
Coaching is a process of guiding and developing an employee’s skills, knowledge, and abilities. Managers work with employees to set goals, identify areas for improvement, and create actionable plans to achieve those goals. A coach provides feedback, support, and encouragement throughout the process, helping employees stay motivated and engaged.
Making time for these deeper connections is especially important in small businesses, where employees often wear multiple hats and have a significant impact on the success of the organization. When employees feel supported and valued, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated, leading to improved performance and productivity.
Through coaching, managers are also able to identify areas for improvement and growth with- in the organization. By working with employ- ees to identify their strengths and weaknesses, managers can develop plans to address any skill gaps or training needs. This not only benefits the individual employee but also strengthens the organization as a whole.
Another benefit of coaching is the identification of high-potential employees and future leaders within the organization. By nurturing these individuals and providing them with opportunities for growth and development, small business owners can build a strong team of leaders who are committed to the organization’s long-term success.
By investing time and resources into these practices, businesses can build a strong, engaged, and motivated team of employees who are committed to the organization and growing the business for the future.
Ashley Nichols, BA, CPHR is an Assistant Manager, HR with Coastal Community Credit Union.
