Responsibility

The leader is ultimately responsible for the culture of the organization and, as a result, the failure or success of the organization.  Low morale inevitably leads to a dysfunctional culture that far too often turns toxic.  A leader must be aware of the signs and address issues of low morale immediately before they get out of hand.

So how can you know when things are going south on you?  Every situation and every organization is different, but, here are a few things that are worth considering.

1. Surround your with people who really know what is going on in the organization AND will tell you the truth, even when you may not want to hear it.

2. Have an open door that really is an open door.  Too many leaders profess to have an open door but then barricade themselves and are impossible to access.

3. Make sure people feel heard.  This does not mean that you will always do what everyone wants you to do (yes, that is literally impossible), but, it does mean that you will listen to and seriously consider all input.

4. Communicate, communicate, communicate.  Keep people abreast of what is going on.  Use formal and informal communication networks (see #2 above about being accessible) to keep people informed.  Let them know what is going on, what you have control over and what you don't have control over, and what your thinking is for why you decided what you decided.

5. When you are made aware of an issue, address it head on.  Get all the facts and don't make a knee jerk reaction, but, be concise and be prompt.  Keep people informed!

Being a leader is an incredible honor that comes with tremendous responsibility.  Serve your people well by creating a culture that is positive and one where people want to be!