Management is about so much more than just barking orders throughout your shipyard. And while you probably don’t categorize yourself quite that way, there is always room for improvement when it comes to leadership skills. Your job is to motivate your team and encourage quality work and career growth. What can you do as a manager to ensure your team are engaged and excited to work? Here are some simple things to improve your management and leadership skills.
- Show interest.
Getting to know your shipyard staff on a more personal level is a great way to encourage them professionally. They may care about their jobs, but they also care about other interests such as hobbies and their families. When you embrace that your employees are more than cogs in the machine, you can nurture their human side and encourage them to work hard and succeed. - Be friendly.
Positivity goes a long way in the workplace. If you shout orders, act aggressively, or are otherwise inaccessible, your employees won’t be willing to engage with you. They may have difficulty relating to you and won’t bring you their concerns in time to solve them. You don’t need to be their best friend, but be sure you’re treating your employees with respect, kindness, and gratitude. - Follow up.
As you talk to your employees, be sure to remember to follow up with them later. This is especially true with personal interests or even challenges they’re having outside the workplace. Ask them how they’re doing or about their weekend. Ask them about their kids or pets. Be specific with details to show that you’re really listening to them when they talk with you. - Set boundaries.
Of course, you also want to respect professional boundaries. While it is perfectly okay join your team at the bar after work, be sure your behavior doesn’t cross a line into inappropriate. Setting boundaries that fosters a more professional and friendly relationship and that will carry over to a positive workplace.
Do you want to know more ways to become a better leader for your shipyard team? Contact the experts at Hutco today.
