The old saying “what you put out, you receive” could not be more relevant in today’s climate and workforce. It’s harder than ever to retain top talent and in my point of view, one of the biggest ways to accomplish this is to make sure that as a manager, you’re not only the leader, but also the Chief Energy Officer. Part of the job description is to step out of the trenches and let your team take over while you boost the morale and energy within the company.

Are you doing it right? Are you doing it at all? Here are 5 tips to bring the energy …

Tip #1: Keep it Light

One of the easiest ways to squash the energy in your office is to be deemed as “too intimidating” to talk to. If your team members don’t feel like you are one of them, they will likely never come to you to talk about how to improve the workplace or even come to you with any concerns they have. When your team feels they can come to you with their thoughts and when they feel their thoughts are being heard by you, this can re-energize the entire workplace.

Tip #2: Don’t Micromanage

You’re the leader –it’s time that you take a step back and get out of your head (and the trenches) and trust your team to do the job well. By taking a step back and letting go, you show your team that you are confident in them and this will help to energize them and boost their confidence. The last thing you want to do is try to take over work that should be the responsibility of your team. Remember, being a leader means you’re always looking ahead, but also allowing things to form within the group’s mission.

Tip #3: Make Meetings Fun

When you attend meetings, most of your job is to listen. If you do this, meetings will become more light, fun and productive —and you’ll also learn what everyone is thinking and feeling. Hold back ideas to prevent skewing the team’s thoughts and let them lead the conversation. This creates tremendous, powerful energy amongst the group.

Remember, without them, there is not success! Allow everyone to be involved, present, and focused on the goal —this way, each person on your team will feel they are contributing to the successes you’re achieving or the goal at hand.

Tip #4: Be a True Team

Being a true team means working together to work through issues or problems (even if they’re not yours).  Remember, there is no failure —only learning opportunities. When you take on this belief system, this produces positive energy to move forward through the ups and downs. And, when members of your team witness that belief system … it will change theirs. When you win as a team, you lose as a team.

Tip #5: Gratitude and Appreciation for Contribution is Paramount

You won’t find team members sleeping on the job when they know that their hard work is recognized and appreciated. Make sure to give accolades when earned and to mention big wins in meetings and in memos. Team members want to be recognized (just as much as you do) for their hard work and nothing boosts energy like knowing you are appreciated by your manager and team. I know, for me, it’s one of the highest honors I can receive when I’m giving all I can towards what the team can accomplish.

If you keep the energy levels high, your team members will feel more empowered and happy in their roles. What are some of the ways that you bring the energy? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!