It's every manager's dream to be in charge of an "A-Team". Here's how you too can make every average performer into a top performer.
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Is it your dream to build an "A-Team" that works for you? You're not alone. Over 95% of managers wish to be in charge of top performing employees. Unfortunately, in reality, not everyone is dealt a good hand. Fortunately, however, it is possible to build an "A-Team" consisting of highly productive employees by following these tips:
1) Encourage questions
Top performers are rarely afraid of clarifying their doubts. Create an environment where your team is not afraid to ask questions or for help.
2) Practice brain-dumps
Often, one may miss out on tasks due to other preoccupations. It's a good practice to perform a brain dump on a daily / weekly basis to list down everything that requires one's attention. Encourage your team to do the same.
3) Decide a cut-off
This is essentially a time-limit for small tasks. If a task requires less time than your cut-off, it's advisable to do it right away to avoid forgetting it or having to come back to it later. Cut-off can vary from person to person but most people peg it between 2 to 5 minutes. Ask your team to set their own cut-off for those small but important tasks.
4) Carry out reviews
Allocate some time every day / week to ensure that your team has fulfilled its daily / weekly commitments and review the plan of action for the upcoming day / week. Use this time to rearrange or reset tasks and deadlines.
5) Start off your day with a plan
Instead of checking your mail in the morning, first dedicate some time to reviewing your schedule and deciding which tasks require your urgent action. Planning your day will help you to ensure that you do not waste too much time on things that are not urgent or important. Advice your team to plan their day as well.
With your team following these tips, you'll soon be the captain of your own "A-Team" in no time.
