A good work culture is built on the foundation of good communication. Good communication provides great leaders with good information they can then use to support a team.
Last month I shared six questions leaders can ask their team to create a positive work environment. These questions come from a great book, First Break All the Rules.
Based on decades of research by Gallup, this book reveals unconventional yet powerful insights into what it takes to be a great manager and leader.
Here are six more questions to ask your team that can indicate high employee engagement and organizational performance.
The answers to these questions will give leaders a framework for stronger, more productive teams.
1. At work, do my opinions seem to count?
Leaders should cultivate an environment where employees feel heard and valued. When employees believe that their ideas and contributions matter, they are more likely to engage and offer creative solutions.
Encourage open dialogue, actively listen, and incorporate feedback from your team. When employees feel their voices count, it strengthens commitment and innovation.
2. Does the mission/purpose of my company make me feel my job is important?
Employees want to feel that their work has meaning. Leaders must ensure that the organization's mission is not just a slogan but a living, breathing part of the workplace culture.
Connecting individual roles to the broader purpose of the organization fosters a sense of pride and accountability in employees.
When people believe in what they do, they are more engaged and committed.
3. Are my co-workers committed to doing quality work?
The culture of a team has a significant impact on individual performance. When employees work alongside peers who are dedicated and committed, it creates a positive, high-performing environment.
Leaders should promote teamwork, recognize collaborative efforts, and address performance issues quickly to maintain a culture of excellence.
4. Do I have a best friend at work?
While this question might seem unconventional, having strong personal relationships at work can significantly increase engagement.
Employees who have close friendships at work are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs and feel connected to the organization. Leaders should encourage team-building activities and foster a workplace culture that allows authentic relationships to flourish.
5. In the last six months, has someone at work talked to me about my progress?
Feedback is crucial for growth, and employees want to know how they’re doing. Feedback shouldn't be limited to annual performance reviews.
Regular, constructive conversations about progress keep employees engaged and motivated.
As a leader, creating an ongoing feedback loop that highlights strengths and identifies areas for improvement is key to continuous development.
12. This last year, have I had opportunities to learn and grow?
Growth and learning opportunities are essential for keeping employees engaged over the long term. Leaders must provide access to professional development programs, training, and challenges that stretch employees’ capabilities.
When employees are given opportunities to expand their skill sets, they stay engaged and motivated, seeing a future within the organization.
Want to create a high-performing team?
These questions encourage leaders to rethink traditional management approaches and adopt a more people-centered leadership style.
Here are some key takeaways you can start applying now:
Focus on employee strengths,
Provide consistent recognition
Foster meaningful relationships
Support professional development
Ready, Set, Grow!
Leaders, continue elevating your team's performance with these additional six questions. Help your team feel like they are part of something bigger than themselves.
These insights developed in First, Break All the Rules help leaders humanize the workplace and create an environment where people feel valued and empowered.
Ready to learn how to implement these strategies? Connect with John for training solutions tailored specifically to your team.
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