This is very basic stuff, but I am reminded daily that we all fail at the fundamentals. From the most sophisticated research-based companies to the simplest of business models, the basics are forgotten and undervalued.
If we worked much harder on the time-tested foundational needs of employees and employers, we would create benefits more powerful than the latest trends in "employee engagement" or "human capital management."
Your grandmother knew the basics and applied them to you at each interaction.
1. You knew her expectations.
Grandma left no doubt what she expected. You were to comb your hair, stand up straight, give her a hug, and say "please." No ambiguity on the core expectations. Meet those standards and she showed tolerance for your minor lawbreaking. You knew where you stood at all times and you loved her for that consistency and honesty. (Do your employees know what is expected and receive feedback on where they stand?)
2. The power of her "look"
Grandma did not wait until you messed up eight times to give you direction. She was there with a redirection or powerful gaze right when it was needed. She knew that you would learn best if the correction was close in time to the problem.
3. You can do it.
Grandma had confidence in you even when your immediate family did not. Grandma expected your best and gave you enough rope to prove her right. She did not require perfection, but she demanded reasonable effort and improvement.
4. You are important to this family.
Grandma had her ways of showing you that your actions affected others. She knew you wanted to be a good big sister or helpful son. She knew that if you understood how your behaviors affected others, you would work harder to do your best.
"Because I said so" may have come out of your parent's mouths, but never Grandma's.
5. "Here's a dollar."
Grandma kept a shiny new dollar coin in her purse to surprise you. Sometimes you never knew why. ("Was it because I combed my hair or because I hugged her without being asked?") You just knew you had met or exceeded her standards. If she withheld that dollar, you resolved to do better next time, no words were needed. Employees need paychecks and benefits, but the intermittent reinforcement of a genuine thanks or other reward can be more powerful.
6. You can talk to Grandma.
Grandma made sure she kept your confidences and saw you as an individual distinct from your 12 siblings and cousins. That meant the communication lines were open and serious adult-like challenges could be discussed with her as you grew. Sometimes she was blunt. Grandma cared about you and your growth. (Do you care about your employees as individuals and about their growth, or is it more about you?)
Sure, Grandma smelled funny and got red lipstick on your cheek. But just remember how you felt when you went to see her and she used those basic behaviors with you every time. The moral of this story? Spend more time with your team on the basics and reap the rewards.
Bruce Clarke, J.D., is president and CEO of CAI Inc., a human resource management firm with locations in Raleigh and Greensboro.
