HR Management & Compliance, Talent

Share the Work, Share the Credit

Many managers and leaders have been there. The praise is pouring down for a job well done, the accolades pile up and opportunities for advancement mount. But a leader or a manager doesn’t do it all alone. One of the gravest mistakes a leader can make is hoarding credit for success. It takes a team to accomplish team goals. Failing to recognize the important contributions, hard work, and dedication of subordinates can lead to poor future performance and productivity, resentment, and turnover. Here are a few basic points to remind your managers of when it comes to celebrating success.

Remember Who Did the Work

While many managers are very hands on, there’s usually someone else doing the actual “production,” whether that means producing a physical product or providing a service experience. Successful managers often put in longer hours than their staff, and management is a stressful endeavor, but a wise leader will remember that while he or she is doing a lot of work putting the pieces in motion, someone else is actually performing those motions.

Recognizing Others Doesn’t Diminish Your Own Achievements

When a project is truly successful, there is plenty of credit to go around. Some managers fear that their own accomplishments will be less significant if credit is given to those who helped reach the goal. But in reality, the success of one’s subordinates is a great accolade.

Little Things Matter

Team members know when they have helped contribute to a goal or put in extraordinary effort. While they may not consciously crave a gold star, at some level everyone feels slighted when their efforts aren’t acknowledged. Conversely, they’ll feel a burst of pride at even a small recognition or token of appreciation.
Leaders and managers work hard, and they deserve credit for their accomplishments. But a mature and confident leader will give credit where credit is due and recognizes the importance of rewarding a job well done.

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