The Results Paradox: For Better Outcomes, Focus More on Process

Are you creating a work environment that encourages employees to maximize their talents and bring their best selves to work? Or is the work more transactional – they do exactly what you ask, no more and no less. Are your employees going through the motions, meeting the minimum requirements while constantly watching the clock? 

Every business has benchmarks, objectives and expectations, of course, and it is vital that they are well communicated so that team members both understand and embrace them. But leaders who focus too much on results may be less successful (at least in the long run) than those who pay more attention to the process that helps employees achieve them. Ironically, overemphasis on results may discourage staff from bringing their A-game to work and diminish use of their talents for your business. 

When we tap into the aspirations of our employees, their motivation increases, and higher job satisfaction leads to increased productivity. Of course, there are limits – the workplace is obviously about more than personal development. Work needs to get done! But, when leaders strike the right balance, their business and employees both flourish.

How are you doing as a leader when it comes to balancing results and process? Are you proactively creating a work climate that encourages those who work with you to fully apply their talents, find meaning in their work, and maximize productivity? List three specific things you could do to strengthen your leadership effectiveness by focusing more on people and positive work processes.

Check out my full column on this subject in the May 7 edition of the New Hampshire Business Review.    

We each have an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, including our own. Don’t underestimate your impact!