Neha Wadhwa

As human beings, we all like being recognized and appreciated for our efforts in the social environment that we thrive in. Therefore, I feel that public recognition can encourage and motivate the team members immensely. While financial recognition is what most of the individuals sought. However, in situations where that is not possible due to policy / cost restraint, I think that public recognition is the second best option. Personally, I remember every time I was publicly recognized by my superiors; ultimately made me feel so motivated to work even harder for the team and the organisation. And a little voucher or a small token of gift along with it, doesn’t harm anyone; but rather is cherry on the cake. ✨✨

In my experience, when a team misses their deadline, the team leader plays the most important role in keeping the team’s morale up and not letting them feel disappointed. It is important to remind the team that they gave their best.. And the project is actually a journey that all of us are part of.. having said that, it is equally important to communicate with the team on the aspects that could have been handled better or differently.. and also chalk out a remediation path to address the missed timeline.. And most importantly to make the team believe that it is pissoble to rectify the situation or change the situation for better.. that belief comes from the top.. United we stand, divided we fall! ✨

While I understand it is difficult to hear things that you dont want to hear.. but the key is to remain open and consider feedback from other’s as an opportunity to improve yourself. The good part is that if you are receiving feedback it implies that others consider you approachable and are able to talk to you about it. So, why not listen to it, understand where the other person is coming from and see if there is any room for improvement… Go all the way out for self improvement.. It gives you a chance to pause and see if there are things you can do differently. In my experience, it was difficult to accept feedback initially but over a period of time I have adapted my approach to feedback and realised that it helps a lot for self growth. ✨

It is soo important to empower your team to make important decision.. decisions that can impact the direction of your team, unit and organisation.. Having said that, it is equally important provide them the support system; if they were to unable to take decisions or end up taking wrong decisions.. After-all, who doesn’t make mistakes we are all human beings. It is easy to crucify your team for making mistakes or taking wrong decisions.. but it is the support at that time that allows growth.. providing the required support system is an important element of empowerment.. and it is this support that sets up apart as a true leader who genuinely wants your team to grow.. !

One thing I have found helpful is actually having a self- care routine outside work that you religiously follow such as meditation, yoga, workout, dance etc. As a leader, I have made sure that I have a life and areas of interest outside work as well. For instance, I have a Bhangra dance group that keeps me connected to my culture and roots. I also practice yoga regularly to ensure I stay in touch with myself; this gives me a chance to ponder over my actions, life etc. Do not under estimate the impact that your personal routine can have on your professional life.. ✨✨

Changes are best received if everyone feels that they are an equally important part of the change. It is essential to be empathetic and understand how the change might be impacting them. One of the best ways to involve everyone is to communicate openly. As part of your communication, speak to the team about how the change is impacting you, including some of the vulnerable aspects and how you are dealing with it at your end.. Use words such as ‘us’ and ‘we’; rather than ‘I’ and ‘you’..! Inclusion is the best medium to embrace change..✨✨