Start with the good

What are you team members doing well? Are you focusing on their talents during your conversations?

One of my favorite bosses would always start our performance discussions by asking me for three things I did exceptionally well during the past year. She followed with three things she thought I did exceptionally well. Sometimes they were the same, sometimes not. We then talked about opportunities to grow in the coming year - my thoughts first, then hers.

I looked forward to those conversations every year. They were energizing and motivating. And focused on my strengths. Our conversation focused on what I needed in order to succeed.

Turns out there is research surrounding this approach to leading that reinforces my feelings.