The success of an organization begins with the productivity level and sense of self-efficacy among its employees. Tonya DeVane, a client advisor for The Omnia Group, led an Applied Client Network webinar to provide behavioral insight as it relates to time management in the workplace. She discussed several key components to help webinar participants, especially managers, better understand the myriad ways catered employee motivation tactics benefit an organization in the long run.

There are instances where, as early as the 90th day of employment, those hired into a vacant role begin to lose sight of their importance, their overall responsibilities and how they fit into the bigger picture. This issue often arises when a manager doesn’t quite understand the dynamic of the team they have put together. Dissecting the team dynamic before incorporating new personnel helps positively channel each employee’s distinct energy and skillset.

DeVane discussed the various personality types that exist in the workplace, dividing each into their own “column.”

Level of Assertiveness

The first facet is “Level of Assertiveness”, with column one being “Competitive” and column two being “Cautious”. A team is bound to have a few employees that fall under each column; but, failing to identify major disparities between these levels of assertiveness on a team can lead to conflict and reduce workflow efficiencies. Getting consistent feedback from those in column two can help bridge the gap and generate productive energy.

Communication Style

The second facet is “Communication Style” which captures columns three and four. The “Relational” and “Analytical” personality types co-exist best when the “Relational” personas have a specific outlet for their social energy. DeVane suggests assigning these employees to a welcome or event planning committee to reduce the likelihood of them distracting the “Analytical” personas from getting their work done, while simultaneously fulfilling their own need to be a change agent.

Pace Level

The third facet is “Pace Level”, which captures column five, “Quick Pace”, and column six, “Routine”. According to DeVane, understanding these column personas is invaluable when it comes to assigning tasks to team members. By discerning the balance between these personas, in particular, frustrations will be limited and time management standards can be established.

Level of Structure

The final facet is “Level of Structure,” encompassing columns seven and eight. The “Independent” and “Structured” personas contrast in such a way that can impede critical workflow steps. The “Independent” personas make decisions without direction, while “Structured” personas ask permission prior to moving forward on an assigned task. Both personas provide numerous benefits on a team; however, it is important to eliminate conflict or judgment between the two to maximize productivity.

The Ultimate Picture of Success

DeVane also discussed the integral “puzzle pieces” that create the ultimate picture of success. The pieces include:

• GOALS: Make team/organization goals clear so team members understand the overall contribution vision
• COMMUNICATING: Includes an “open-door policy” to nurture team communication
• FEEDBACK: Evaluating issues that arise and immediate solutions rather than finger pointing
• CLARITY: All team members should be clear on their purpose
• MEETING: Create an agenda and list of action items; meetings are the #1 productivity killer because of lack of purpose
• AUTONOMY: Empower your team in a way that allows them to feel motivated to make their own decisions; imbue the idea that they are the CEO of their own role

Overall, one of the biggest productivity challenges within an organization involves limited engagement among team members due to mishandling of the aforementioned personality and behavior types. Implementing accountability, the knowledge of how specific tasks will better the company and clarity about a team member’s specific role aid in boosting productivity. Great leaders, at any level, will find a way to evaluate their team members, which will ultimately foster a cohesive and successful organization.

Don’t miss the next Applied Client Network webinar! Visit our store to access Webinar Replays, including the November 2019 session on “Peer-To-Peer: How To Use Behavioral Insight To Manage Time Effectively And Create A Productive Atmosphere.”