A More Empowered Workplace in 4 Simple Steps May 10 2016

The word “empowerment” means to give official power or authority. Many workplaces stress empowering their employees on paper but don’t really integrate it into company culture. Empowering your employees is not optional in a lean workplace dedicated to maximum efficiency.

Under lean management, empowered employees will have certain qualities that others who are more dependent on their management to make all the decisions will not develop. In a lean workplace, employees are responsible for taking the lead and know the boundaries of their position more fully because they are more engaged with their job and their environment. This gives management time to shift focus from directing and inspecting to coaching and building up the team.


With employees taking action within their defined positions, this leaves less time and manpower to waste. In turn, your management team will be able to focus on honing the skills and abilities of your employees as a coach, rather than going behind them as a parent and making sure everything was done properly.

How can you begin to loosen the reins on your employees and turn them into empowered workers?

1. Value your employees. The best employees at a company do not work there just for the money. Show them your appreciation for their work and dedication to your organization. Let them know that your business could not run without them. As simple as it sounds, telling your employees that you appreciate them take workplace morale to the next level.

2. Share your vision for the future of the company. Everyone who works for your company should be familiar with your organization's mission, vision, and strategic plans for growth and development. Giving employees the insight of your overall goals of the company will support their overall independence within their position. You may be surprised at the initiative and outpouring of ideas from employees when they see your vision and know where the company is heading.

3. Delegate more than just work. Giving your employees project assignments and committee memberships that are outside their specific day-to-day job responsibilities will make them feel valued and like they are part of the bigger picture within your organization. This also gives you the ability to find fresh talent for leadership roles.

4. Have an open door policy. One of the most important things you can do as a manager is to listen to the needs of your employees. The duty of the manager is to act as a workplace coach, and each employee may require a different approach. Provide constructive feedback and offer real, actionable solutions. Outline opportunities for them to grow. You should always know how an employee is feeling in their role within your organization, and they should always know what the management team thinks of their performance and growth in their role.

What do you do to empower your employees in the workplace? Comment here, or find us on Twitter @FloorTapeStore!

Image Source: (Flickr/FusionCareerServices Ltd)