While celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday this week, I'm taking a much needed break from writing. Nevertheless, I hope you enjoy the following issue from Thanksgiving week last year.

Little Things Matter

November 25, 2004

Being a manager can sometimes be a thankless job. Employees, bosses - even customers - don't always appreciate the many things you do to keep the work unit running smoothly. Why? Because so many of the things you do are invisible to them. All those little things you do behind the scenes that no one seems to notice.

Unfortunately, it seems people only notice when some- thing isn't quite right. When this happens, it can leave you feeling unappreciated, frustrated, and discouraged. Sometimes you wonder if it's worth all the effort you put into the job.

That's when it helps to take a step back and reflect on the reasons why you chose to become a manager in the first place. Okay, besides the fact that it probably pays more than your previous position did. The reason why most people aspire to become a manager is that it offers a greater opportunity to be in charge, to make decisions, have an impact on a larger scale, and to have a positive influence on the lives of the people around you.

Sometimes it's easy to forget that despite the frustrations, those opportunities are still there. It's just that they don't come all wrapped in a nice neat package, visible for everyone to see. Instead, they're the result of all the small things you do - the accumulation of all the decisions, activities, and interactions you have with others, every day.

Here are just a few examples of "little things" that add up to a very big a difference.

• Each time you stop for a moment and explain to an employee how to perform a job task, you help that person become a little better at what they do;
  
   
• Each time you compliment an employee for a job well done you help build that person's self-esteem and self- confidence.
  
   
• Each time you discuss career goals with an employee you influence that person's decisions regarding their future;
  
   
• Each time you ask an employee is there isn't a better way to accomplish a particular task or meet an objective you emphasize the importance of being efficient;
  
   
• Each time you inquire about the status or observe an employee at work you help promote personal accountability;
  
   
• Each time you set a goal or describe plans for achieving it you demonstrate leadership;
  
   
• Each time you give up your lunch break or work a few extra hours in order to complete a task on time you demonstrate the importance of doing a good job and holding oneself accountable for results;
  
   
• Each time you take a moment to help out a customer, you enhance the reputation and value of your company;
  
   
• Each time you anticipate a problem and take action to head it off you demonstrate the importance of being proactive;
  
   
• Each time you share a laugh with an employee or coworker you make the organization a better, more relaxed place to work;
  
   
• Each time you say no to an unreasonable request you maintain order and discipline in the work unit;
  
   
• Each time you say yes or bend the rules to help out a valued employee in need you engender goodwill and loyalty;
  
   
• Each time you take a strong position on an issue because it's the right one, even if it's unpopular, you teach employees the value of principles and strength of conviction.

The cumulative impact of all these actions on the effectiveness of the organization and on the lives of people is enormous. So, whenever you feel frustrated or impatient by what you've failed to accomplish, just continue doing the little things. They add up.

Be strong and stay focused. Your employees are counting on you. Your organization is counting on you.

Stephen Foster, Ph.D.
Expert Supervisor, LLC
1493 Market Street
Tallahassee, FL 32312
(850) 893-5699

E-mail me at: Steve.Foster@ExpertSupervisor.com.