Reduce “Zoo Fatigue”: Take Control of Executive Visits
“Hi Karin, I’m a manager of our flagship location. Which is pretty cool. And…. we are getting SO MANY executive visits. It’s a constant parade of senior leaders looking to learn and looking to help. Don’t get me wrong, it’s way better than being ignored or left on our own…. but sometimes my team feels like we’re working in a zoo.
All the observing and explaining is distracting my team, who really need to focus on our most important things and building our new team culture.
How do I gain better control over these visits, without damaging my career? How can I make these visits more productive?” #AskingForaFriend
Take Control of Executive Visits With These Simple Steps:
Determine Intention
Once you know who is arranging the executive visits, ask them these important questions:
- What is the intention of these visits?
- What does success look like?
- Is the purpose to educate executives so they understand the inner workings of the business?
- Or do they think these visits benefit you and your teams by providing moral support and encouragement?
After you know the intention behind the executive visits, you can help figure out the best way to achieve those results– without distracting your team. With some focused conversation, you can ensure these visits add value for all involved.
Establish Your Leadership
As a mentor of mine, Gail used to say, “Where there is chaos seize control.”
One way to do this is by setting clear expectations for these executive visits. Give the visiting executives some information in advance. You might even consider making a pre-visit video to answer the most frequently asked questions and establish some guidelines for when they come.
Know the story you want to share, and help your team get ready. See Also: Presenting to Executives: How to Have More Confidence
Ask for What You Need.
The good news is when executives come to visit they’re usually looking for practical ways to help. So be ready with your “ask.”
This is a great time to recognize employees by giving them some positive executive exposure. It’s also a great opportunity to share your ideas. Check out our guide to sharing your ideas at work right here. If you need additional resources, or training, or…. find a way to work that into the conversation, linking what you need to why it matters.
All in all, your goal with executive visits is for your team to say…”You know what? When those people come good things happen.” And you want that to be true!
Executive visits are a great way to empower and support your team. Define success, engage proactively as a leader, and ask for what you need.
Are you ready to accelerate team performance? Our manager-led, on-demand Team Accelerator program is a perfect way to take your team’s performance to the next level.
Your turn. I’d love to hear from you. What’s one of your favorite ways to reduce zoo fatigue for better executive visits?
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