One of the most common mistakes in creating a culture of engagement is relying on guesswork. According to engagement experts, this habit is hard to break and can hinder organizational growth. For managers, trusting their gut to gauge employee engagement can be challenging, as employees may not feel comfortable sharing feedback openly.

So, how can managers understand what’s really going on within their teams? The key lies in asking a simple question: “How am I doing?” This question has the power to uncover underlying issues and barriers to growth, leading to increased engagement and a sense of purpose among employees.

Why Employee Input is Essential for Managing Managers

Managers play a crucial role in setting team goals, evaluating performance, and fostering collaboration. However, effective management also requires listening to employees and understanding their feedback. Ben Horowitz suggests that managers should prioritize listening over talking, as it helps in drawing out key issues and fostering open communication.

Listening is particularly important for leadership when managing managers. By getting to know the teams under their managers’ supervision, executives can provide relevant feedback and coaching without undermining their authority. This balance can be achieved through engagement tools and technology.

Improving Manager Performance Through Listening

Encouraging employees to provide candid feedback can be challenging but essential for understanding their relationships with managers. By conducting confidential engagement surveys, managers can gain insights into what is working well within their teams.

High scores in engagement surveys indicate areas of success that can be leveraged for inspiration. By asking follow-up questions like “How does your manager inspire you?” or “What makes you excited about current projects?” managers can gather valuable insights for coaching and mentoring their team effectively.

Ultimately, incorporating employee feedback and survey data can enhance the effectiveness of managing managers. By creating a culture of open communication and continuous improvement, organizations can drive engagement, productivity, and growth.