Most organizations have growth as a core pursuit. And why not, growth brings opportunities for the company and its employees: more profit, higher wages and higher bonuses, more interesting work, opportunities for advancement … But what is the actual impact of a growing company on its employees and leaders?
Growth means work loads increase for employees due to sheer volume. This leads to adding more employees, creating the need for more supervisors, managers and executives. Existing roles change as more sophisticated customers come on board, and as more sophisticated tools, software and processes are put in place. Every role in the company changes, and for an employee to be successful in the new environment they need to grow their capability and proficiency as fast as, or faster than the company.
This creates a challenge for managers to keep on top of matching employee proficiency with job requirements. Especially as the greatest change in job requirements may be for employees moving from hands on supervision to actual management and leadership. Role requirements and job descriptions are as much a live and changing part of a company as its products, customers and processes.
This month take the time and energy to ensure that your employees know what will make them successful over the coming year. Most importantly, ensure that your newly promoted leaders have the skills to understand the changing role requirements of their teams, and are equipped to provide the leadership, support, and training for a successful year.
