Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be in a band? No, not the frontman. Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be one of the supporting musicians, the guitar or bass player, the keyboard player, or a backup singer? If they belong to a successful band, they make tons of money and enjoy the adoring fans… but does anyone know their name?
It may sound harsh, but think about your favorite bands. Can you name anyone but the lead singer?
Frontmen have a very important job to do. And some of them rock it. Their job is to ensure their bandmates feel appreciated, acknowledged, and like an essential part of the band.
As a leader, you have the same job. You must make your team members feel good about their roles. A paycheck is nice, but if you want the best out of your employees, you’ll need to turn up the appreciation in your organization.
How to Show Appreciation
Of course, paying well, offering incentives, and giving small gifts when an employee goes above and beyond are important. However, how can you show true appreciation for the band members who have your back and ensure your business runs smoothly and successfully every day?
Recognize Their Good Work
Do you tell your employees when they are doing well, or do they only hear from you when there’s something to fix? Human beings thrive on positive reinforcement. Sure, you can address areas that need improvement but don’t forget to praise them for what they do right.
You’ll also want to find out how your team members like to be acknowledged. Some prefer it be done privately, while others thoroughly enjoy being praised publicly. Consider a frontman who stops in the middle of a concert to introduce, acknowledge, and thank all of their band members. You can practically see them beam with pride.
Listen to Them
Create a culture where employees feel heard. Nothing is more disheartening than mustering up the courage to voice a concern or submit an idea to management only to be dismissed, shot down, or, even worse, ridiculed.
On the other hand, employees who feel heard and understood, and like their feedback is appreciated and taken into consideration… are truly happy employees.
Eddie Vedder, frontman for Pearl Jam, said, “A band is a delicate ecosystem. Everyone needs to have their input and feel heard. That’s how the music gets better, and that’s how we grow together as a group.”
Let your employees know, through your words and actions, that you want to hear what they have to say. When they do speak up, thank them for their feedback and take it into true consideration. These people are on the ground, making your business run. There’s a good chance they’ve got valuable insight to share.
Give Them Opportunities for Advancement
The problem with having a great employee is that you don’t want to lose them. Fearing the loss of someone they depend on; some managers will block upward or even lateral movement or fail to offer growth opportunities. While they think this is a smart move, the only thing the manager is doing is ensuring that if the employee does move, it’s right out of the organization.
Nahko, lead singer of Nahko and Medicine for the People, understands this. While these moments of transition are challenging, he understands the importance of artists exploring new avenues that allow them to grow personally and professionally. Sometimes, they even come back.
As opposed to just a manager, consider yourself a talent developer and strive to help mold the strongest (and happiest) employees possible.
Conclusion
If you want to create a positive work environment where your employees have a vested interest in your organization’s success, it’s time to turn up the appreciation. Let them know how important they are to your mission, and honor them for their efforts.
To learn more about rockstar leadership, visit https://marvellessmark.com/.
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