Ensuring quality work is delivered can be a struggle especially when there are strict timeframes and the workload seems endless.
As leaders we need to manage unrealistic expectations for the volume of work we (or our teams) are expected to produce; it’s not just quality that may be impacted, it’s also morale, burn out, and work relationships.
Long hours are sometimes required to meet critical deadlines but there’s a need to monitor workloads for intensity and pace (for both exceptional performers as well as under achievers).
Ideas that help:
Sincerely,As leaders we need to manage unrealistic expectations for the volume of work we (or our teams) are expected to produce; it’s not just quality that may be impacted, it’s also morale, burn out, and work relationships.
Long hours are sometimes required to meet critical deadlines but there’s a need to monitor workloads for intensity and pace (for both exceptional performers as well as under achievers).
Ideas that help:
- Review each work effort and determine how they align with your vision, mission, goals. Which ones are the priority items? Studies show that only about 50% of a worker’s time is spent on goal specific activities. Diversions and new priorities do happen but be aware that delivery windows may be impacted.
- Try and leverage best practices for past deliverables; consider what went well and what could be improved upon. (Do you have documented processes and procedures that can assist?)
- Make sure your team members possess the necessary skills and clearly understand what’s expected of them with associated due dates. Also, ask them how they feel about their workload.
- Delegate as needed; this will empower and inspire the team.
- Observe and understand how you and your team react to stress. Some are energized when so much is required of them, and others may feel drained and struggle with accomplishing much at all.
Delivering high-quality work provides a strong sense of satisfaction, it builds trusting business relationships, and it creates a thriving work culture.
Do you have tips for managing quality over quantity?
Mike and Jan