Foxie knows that being a good leader is kind of like being a GPS. You need to tell people where they’re going, help them avoid major roadblocks, and occasionally yell, “Recalculating!” when things start to go sideways.

What you don’t need to do is grab the steering wheel. Give your employees direction, support, and trust…and let them do their job.

If you want to lead from afar instead of hovering over their every move, here are five ways to keep your employees productive without making them feel like they are being monitored by mission control.

1. Set clear expectations – Employees can’t meet expectations they don’t understand. Clearly explain the goal, deadline, and responsibilities upfront…. then let your team determine the best way to get there.
2. Delegate and let go – Delegating a task then constantly checking on it isn’t delegation; it’s babysitting with a job title. Give your employees ownership of their responsibilities and allow them to solve problems along the way.
3. Communicate without constant interruption – Good communication doesn’t mean sending 20 messages before lunch asking how things are going. Establish simple ways for employees to ask questions and share updates so you will stay informed, without momentum-killing interruptions.
4. Focus on results, not every step along the way –You hired people because you believed they could do the job. Focus on whether the work is completed accurately and on time, not whether it is completed exactly as you would have.
5. Use technology to keep everyone connected – The right technology can make leadership easier by keeping information organized and easily accessible. Foxie products, LinkMy.Events and LinkMy.Wedding, help keep vendors, employees, guests, schedules, announcements, and important event information connected in one place. Better communication means fewer “Where is that information?” conversations… and fewer reasons to hover.

Being a great leader doesn’t mean knowing everything everyone is always doing. It means creating an environment where people understand what’s expected, providing the tools they need to succeed, and having them feel trusted to do their jobs.

Lead your team, communicate clearly, provide support…and then get out of the way. Your employees will appreciate it, and so will your blood pressure.

Text “START” to Foxie at 36943, email me at smcclellan@foxie.com or call us at 866-BE-ENGAGED (866-233-6424).