The 180-degree Discussion
Expectations and communications about expectations play key roles in an employee’s engagement. When an employee clearly understands expectations, she engages more readily and improves her performance more continuously.
Therefore, the manager/supervisor to be ready, willing and able to talk about expectations formally and informally, on a scheduled basis and spontaneously.
The 180-degree discussion is a perfect way to stimulate discussion about expectations.
I suggest 180-degree discussions with every one of your employees. This discussion starts as nothing more than your asking your people what they expect of you. [It's my variation to 360-degree feedback--information/evaluation from a variety of people at various levels who work with the individual.]
While you don’t want to script your conversation, some pointers may assist:
- Introduce the discussion: “I want to be certain your expectations of my role and responsibilities. Will you tell me what you expect from me as your [manager, supervisor, coordinator....]?”
- Encourage them to elaborate: “What other expectations do you have of me and my responsibility?” [Ask “What else?†several times.]
- Direct the conversation to focus on expectations in general: “Strong performance depends upon clear expectations. Making expectations clear depends on strong communication. Do you have any suggestions…?”
- Be prepared to shift discussion to your expectations of the employee: “Would you like any clarification of your expectations? Do you have any questions about your job and those expectations? Or is there anything you would like us to discuss?“
I encourage you to keep in mind that your goal is increasing employee engagement. The more accurate and certain the employee’s knowledge of what’s expected, the more she will actively engage in fulfilling the expectations. These 180-degree discussions give the opportunity to ensure that accuracy and certainty.
