September 3, 2024 Developing Top Talent: The Olympians of the Workplace

Employers can learn from Olympic athletes who model consistent practice, improvement, and quality coaching to get the best from their staff.

By Helene Horn Figman, J.D.

The Summer Olympics Games in Paris demonstrated the outstanding effort, perseverance, and commitment to excellence these athletes consistently practice.

So, what can you do to raise the level of distinction of your employees’ performance?

It’s been said before, but bears repeating – the success of employees starts at the top of the organization. In business, employees look to their leaders for direction and inspiration and if those elements are lacking from management, the apple will fall far from the tree…with a thud!

Establishing Clear Expectations

Setting clear expectations as to job functions, performance potential, quotas, conduct, and manner of dress, to name a few, is fundamental to creating a workplace where employees explicitly understand what is required of them. For new hires this starts with the offer letter or employment agreement, a document that provides a springboard for a hiring manager to discuss the company’s vision of the position. A clear updated job description should accompany any offer or agreement. Putting the functions right out there reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings later on.

But it doesn’t end there. Regular communication with the employee and discussion of achievements, as well as areas for improvement, will keep an employee invested. Set specific, measurable goals for employees to work towards, and make accountability a priority by encouraging ownership of tasks and outcomes. Provide regular, constructive feedback, acknowledging achievements and offering guidance on areas for improvement.

Many leaders feel that direction and control translate solely to criticism and correction, but positive input is part of guidance and development. Affirmative feedback is crucial to keep the process viable – and not just in words, but also in incentives that recognize and reward exceptional performance

Empowering Growth

Periodic performance reviews may reveal that the employee is ready for a growth opportunity. Medal winning employees are those who are allowed to grow and achieve their full potential – but they must be given the tools and training needed to realize both their and your goals. Continuous learning opportunities such as ongoing training, workshops, and skill enhancement programs demonstrate a commitment to employees’ professional development. Encourage challenging projects that take employees out of their comfort zone.

The benefits of high-quality training for are many. In addition to receiving support from their employers, employees will experience increased confidence in the ability to do their work and acquire the skills, knowledge, and confidence to advance their careers. Engage in discussions with those A-list employees about their career aspirations and how you can support their growth.

Employee training benefits more than the employee. It also increases productivity, strengthens company culture, and cultivates potential future leaders within an organization. Companies that develop employees through feedback, goal setting, motivation, and appreciation can achieve a reputation that attracts and retains top talent.

Unlocking Employee Potential

Developing top talent in employees involves a combination of strategic planning, continuous learning, and supportive leadership.

Keep in mind that even the most stellar of employees can benefit from collaboration and opportunities to learn from others – and some of that star quality could rub off on other employees in the process!

Also, be aware that Olympic medal quality employees often have a tendency to take on too much and can be reticent to decline a project. It’s up to you, as a manager, to keep abreast of an employee’s task list, evaluate their workload, and identify projects that can be offloaded. The last thing you want is to have that gold medalist burn out.

Disciplined, goal-oriented, determined, collaborative, and adaptable. It’s no surprise that these qualities are shared by the best in the workplace and the best Olympic athletes!

Helene Horn Figman, J.D., is owner/founder of Workplace Awareness Training.

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