Tips on Getting the Most from your Co-workers and your Staff
By Michael C. Dennis, MBA, CBF

Manage staff closely enough to know they are completing their work, but not so closely that you stifle enthusiasm or creativity.

Share the credit when things go well, and accept most of the criticism/blame when they do not.

Don't invite your staff or co-workers to meetings that they do not need to attend

Don't ask people for advice if you don't plan to use it.

If you use someone else's ideas, give them credit for their contribution.

When delegating, if you cannot make a job sound interesting, at least take the time to make it seem important.

Remember that you can accomplish more as part of a team than you ever could alone. For this reason, it is critical to foster a sense of teamwork within your department.

Try not to overreact when a subordinate delivers bad news. Doing so is a recipe for problems. If you "shoot the messenger" you can almost guarantee that bad news will be buried rather than presented quickly so it can be dealt with effectively.

Congratulate subordinates who bring complex problems that are outside of their expertise or areas of influence to your attention.