Image Development Network Presents The Thursday Lineup -- MANAGER 911
BY: Debra Fox --- Corporate Trainer/Motivational Speaker
If you manage people, you have certainly uttered the words "I feel like nothing more than a glorified babysitter!" I hear that statement from managers every time I conduct a management training -- and in many cases it can be justified.
Let's explore what that means. Have you ever hired an actual babysitter? If so, what do you think they do at your house while you are gone for the evening? Talk on the phone --- eat your food --- rent PPV movies --- go through your closets --- invite friends over -- and if you're really lucky they might check on the kids a couple of times! It's a "short-term investment."
On the other hand, what does a Nanny do? Nannies teach, mold, mentor, love, entertain, motivate and reprimand the children. They become a surrogate parent, and it's a "long-term investment."
You see, it's all a matter of perspective. To be a great manager/leader, you must change your perspective on your relationship with your team. When you accept a job supervising people, you are NOT a glorified babysitter --- you ARE the department Nanny. It is your job to lead, guide, mold, mentor, motivate, encourage, empower and reprimand your team members. It is your job to assist your team members in growing in their career. And in return your team respects you for your investment in them, and they are more likely to produce, be an active part of the team and create a positive work environment.
If you don't like the "crop" you're growing, take a look at the seeds you are sowing! Sow seeds that make your team members feel valued and important!
