It is popularly said that change is inevitable in life. There is hardly any facet of life that is not exposed to the inevitable dynamics of change. A true leader needs to embrace and manage the ever-changing trends. With the onslaught of the global pandemic, this could not be truer. For instance, researchers have discovered that a substantial number of workers in some countries are still working from home; while some would prefer to return to the workplace when the restrictions are lifted, most of them prefer to continue to work remotely even with the removal of the restrictions because they are more comfortable with that alternative.

This new work dynamic begs the questions that all leaders need to ponder – what mechanisms are being put in place for the full return of their workers to the workplace, are conversations happening between leaders and their subordinates about where they prefer to work and be the most productive, whether it is solely from their homes, fully back to the workplace or a combination of both? Obviously, these plans, conversations and decisions need to take place.

It is imperative to note that whatever changes do occur in the work sphere of an organization should not change the basic roles of the leaders. Thus, to guarantee the organization’s continued success and to secure a fully engaged, content and productive work team, note the following:

1. Excellent performance begins with well – defined objectives

Leaders and individuals need to specify exactly what their objectives are, when they should be done and how they can be achieved. It is the responsibility of the leader to make sure each team player fully comprehends what activities are expected from each team member and what a result should look like.

2. Analyze and Harmonize

To achieve optimal performance, leaders need to meet each team member to analyze each level of development as they progress in the attainment of each task or objective. After which they harmonize the results of the assessment with a unique leadership style that suits the needs of the person with a sufficient dose of instructive and empathetic behaviors that matches their level of proficiency and dedication to the task or objective.

3. Give Feedback on a regular basis

Depending on the work dynamics of each team member, applying the principle of “Stick and Carrot” would suffice in the following ways:

1. Apply the “Carrot” – If a team member is making considerable and expected progress, a word of commendation is appropriate. It is important to praise the team member not only for what they have done right but how the good results have positively affected you and how it has contributed to the progress of the team. Also, it is good to encourage them to continue to do the same, compel them to do even better and assure them of your continued support.
2. Apply the “Stick” – If a team member is not performing according to standard, redirection is required. Converse with them on what the error is and how it was made. Reclarify what the objective is, explain how it has impacted you, the team and the results expected, reenforce your faith in them and let them know they are more than the error made, chart a different approach to rectify the situation and assure them of your continued support.

With the application of either the “Stick” or the “Carrot”, the main goal is to build each team member up, so they keep learning, strive to grow, improve their skill sets and attain their objectives.

Massive changes are occurring in the workplace globally. Whatever dynamic is embraced on where your team members work, leaders need to remain constant in terms of goal setting, support systems, and applying the appropriate leadership style that will keep everyone on track, enhance the growth of the team and promote the development of the organization.