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Education

Clear Expectations!

September 5, 2014 | By: deaneparkes

THE MOST IMPORTANT REQUIREMENT TO A HIGH PERFORMANCE STAFF

I read this many years ago and have looked to apply it to my job.

What I have realized is clear expectations change as a business changes. In a growing business jobs overlap, new people come on board, people are promoted and usually no one has ever experienced anything quite like the business you are in.

I believe it is important management ensures everyone on their team, including themselves, is ‘clear’ as to what is expected of them that day, month, and year.

How should I dress?

How should I greet customers?

How do I answer the phone?

How do I determine discounts?

What is the return policy?

What is the purpose of our business?

What are the core values?

Whom do I report to?

What happens if someone says they can buy it cheaper down the street?

The more you address basic ‘clear expectations’ and put them to paper or spreadsheet, updating as you improve,  the easier it will be to determine new ‘clear expectations’ as the business grows and diversifies. As example if you are in retail and put in a deli. Most basic expectations will be the same regarding levels of customer service however clear expectations regarding cleaning the cooking area will be new.

The # 1 way to have an emotionally fully engaged staff is through clear expectations…not money, praise or vacations…

The same applies to ourselves; we must have clear expectations.

What expectations do you have?

  • In a year?
  • Goals
  • Behaviors to modify?

Put them to paper or device

Clear expectations reduce stress at home and work..

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