Big Benefits of Small Behavioral Changes

Big Benefits of Small Behavioral Changes

 
Human behavior is complicated. It’s often difficult to comprehend why we ourselves react in certain ways, so deciphering other people’s behavior can seem like a daunting task. But then, isn’t leadership also a people’s science? If you fear decoding human behavioral hieroglyphics, give up any thoughts you may have of leading. 
 
Having said that, understanding human behavior isn’t necessarily such a humongous task. A McKinsey Research Report cites that small tweaks in leadership behavior can make the biggest changes in the overall organizational environment.
 
For this, you first need to identify what kind of behavior you want to elicit from your team. If you want your colleagues to be stress free, productive, creative, less prone to mistakes/errors or bad judgement what areas can you look into. Maybe you should be aware when information overload strikes the team and work pressures mount. Encourage people to avoid multitasking, take frequent short breaks, and ask for help when they feel they are going to conk off. This not only can boost employee productivity, but team camaraderie and high engagement can come in as brownie points.
 
When your colleagues take travel holidays, family breaks, or leave early to hit the gym, encourage their behavior instead of sulking, making them feel guilty, or passing sarcastic comments. Appreciating the right behavior goes a long way in gaining team trust and loyalty. 
 
The next time your colleagues make a mistake, hold them strictly accountable, but don’t intimidate them such that they become defensive or feel emotionally threatened. This can be counterproductive and before you even realize, your colleagues will be buck-passing the blame or making guilty excuses. It can be a big confidence booster when people feel socially accepted and respected. So, ensure you treat people with respect, show fairness in your conduct, and genuine appreciation for a job well done. 
 
‘Be the change you wish to see in others’ could not have been truer when it comes to leadership. MYB believes that role-modeling the behavior you truly believe in, and focusing on people’s strengths can lead to long lasting changes in organizational culture and team performance.
 
 
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