As leaders, one of the most meaningful actions we can take is to increase our team’s involvement. Making space for team members to represent their team or function in key settings broadens their influence. This not only eases our workload but also accelerates their growth and amplifies the team’s impact—both within and beyond the organization.
Why It Matters
When team members take on greater responsibilities, they begin to see the direct impact of their contributions on outcomes, on colleagues, and on the broader organization. This visibility fosters deeper ownership and a stronger connection to the work. When they’re trusted to represent the function in broader forums, they don’t just bring fresh perspectives; they also develop a more enterprise-minded view. With that broader lens, they’re more likely to advocate not just for their own priorities, but for what’s best for the team and the business as a whole.
Start by identifying opportunities where they can step up and take on some leadership responsibility.
Key Questions:
- What meetings or decisions can team members lead?
- Where can their expertise and voice add value?
- What degree of autonomy can be offered?
Remember to be their coach. Remind them that it’s not about knowing everything; it’s about articulating what they do know with confidence and authority.
Areas for Coaching:
- Presence: As a coach, help your team member prepare not just what to say, but how to say it. Presence is about showing up with grounded confidence, reading the room, and making others feel that their perspective is worth listening to.
- Persuasive Communication: Influence grows when team members learn to clearly position their ideas, connect to what matters for others, and respond constructively when challenged. Support them in refining their message, anticipating resistance, and practicing how to advocate for both their point of view and the greater team goal.
We hope this helps!
As always, reach out if we can be helpful to you as you continue on the path of igniting exceptional performance at your company.
