Leaders: You Can Help Others Manage Stress
In last week’s blog, we shared a number of ideas to help you turn the tables on stress, no matter your stress profile. Things like taking microbreaks, a strict schedule, and end-of-day rituals are all helpful ways to impact your stress levels.
Forming new work-related habits doesn’t have to stop with you personally. Whether you are the boss or not, you can do a lot to reduce the stress of others. And, if you are a leader, here are a few ideas for you to incorporate into your management processes:
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Meetings. Start by examining what norms you have established for your team. For example, what time do you have them and what’s the purpose? Can any of them be eliminated, shortened, combined, or re-engineered to allow time for engagement with the team? Input from your team might be a great way to start. They might suggest that the team do an occasional telephone meeting instead of video to allow a walking meeting. Or offer a meeting-free day each week.
Be clear about work times and expectations. Many of us work across multiple time zones and may have different times that we are productive vs. others on the team. Some organizations have added a message on their emails that says, “I am sending this email at a time that suits my work schedule. Please do not feel obligated to reply outside of your working hours.”
Be observant, vigilant, and caring. Since we have fewer chances to see one another in person, it’s harder to notice signs of burnout in our teams. Be watchful for changes in behavior such as cynicism, lack of energy, or decreases in productivity. You might try an agenda-free meeting or one-on-one meeting to stay tuned into what’s going on in their lives. Some team members may be taking on more work and may not speak up when feeling overwhelmed. Be watchful of individuals' workloads to ensure that some members don’t take on too much.
Being aware of others’ stress levels - and what you can do to positively impact them - is a critical piece of the leadership puzzle. Be open to new ideas, try some out, and open up the dialogue with colleagues. The team will notice and appreciate the effort and it will translate to stronger ties and a strengthened work environment. I have no doubt that you will find the positive impact to be wide-ranging and long-lasting.