I go to the same coffee shop everyday for my caffeine fix and have been doing so for the past 10 years. During this time I have seen managers come and go. With each new manager I have noticed that some employees seem to take on the personality of the manager. It is amazing to see people change right before your eyes.
There was one store manager that seemed to be dissatisfied with her job and she wore it on her face. I am not sure why she was even hired as a manager. She was short-tempered with her staff and seldom smiled or engaged the customers. Servers, who were previously energetic and happy, turned sour quickly under her leadership. If it were not for the location and the quality of the coffee I would not have returned.
After a time the manager was replaced with one who appeared to love the job and supported her staff. It took some time but the change in the employees was dramatic. With stress levels reduced, unforced smiles returned and employees appeared to be more engaged in their jobs and with the customers.
What does this say about leadership? How you act can have a significant influence on the people that work for you. People draw their energy from their leader. This influence can be both positive and negative, and can have a serious impact on business and the lives of the people you lead. If you are serious about your leadership it is essential that you be mindful of your demeanor, especially when you are working with your team. When your attitude is positive you will be surprised how productive your team can be.
Coffee always seems to taste better when it is served with smile.
It always starts at the top, doesn't it? Margo
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