- Habitually express that they are important to you, to the project and to the organization.
- Laugh together on small accomplishments…and failures too to learn something from them and move on.
- Compliment them in public for the special qualities they have. Be as specific as you can.
- Give them necessary comfort when they really need it.
- Speak respectfully, don’t put them down or hurt their feelings.
- Give them some space to do whatever they like to – within the allowable boundaries of-course.
- Be enthusiastic over things that they’re excited about and share their excitement.
- Do something you think they want done before they ask.
- Discuss changes with them first before you apply them.
- Show interest in the things they love.
- Learn something from them without being defensive.
- Let go of the small stuff.
- Be a good listener and value what they say.
- Associate with them even unofficially. A weekend trip is a great idea.
- Gift a bottle of the wine of their choice as a surprise.
- Set specific targets to achieve together.
- Let them feel that they are an integral part of the team. Great if it resembles a real-life family.
- Don’t take them for granted, always be polite.
- Don’t feel shy while admitting your mistakes, and ask for forgiveness.
- Defend them to others, especially to other cross functional teams.
- Don’t diminish their acumen.
- Be especially helpful when they are not feeling well.
- Share small details of your routines with them and ask them to do so – this establishes and maintains trust
- Don’t embarrass them in front of others.
- Make eye contact when you are talking.
- Give them your full attention whenever possible.
- Do not forget to wish important dates of their lives. At least birthdays and anniversaries.
- Let them know when you know you are going to be late in the meetings.
- Give them your undivided attention when they’re talking.
- Never compare them unfavourably with others.
- Take care of yourself, It shows you care!
- Be supportive. Help them to achieve her goals.
- Run errands without complaining.
- Explicitly mention their names when you make plans.
- Do things that make them feel cherished.
- Build trust into your relationship.
- Be kinder to them than you are to strangers.
- Make sure they feel valued above everyone else.
- Show affection for them in front of other colleagues.
- Mentally support them when they are discouraged or hurt.
- Surprise them with an unexpected gift.
- Honour them and support their dignity.
- Arrange surprise dinner for them sometimes.
- Be sympathetic when they are feeling down.
- Don’t ignore the small things that bother them.
- Tell them and show them that you value them every day.
- When you’re away keep in touch via call or email often.
- Don’t promise something you cannot keep later.
- Ask them what you can do to have better communication in place. And work upon their answer.
- Accept them the way they are and the way they are not… and do something about it.
- Don’t just do the above things just for the sake of doing it. Mean it.
See Also:
- More On Better Team Relationships 12
- How To Inaugurate Effectiveness In Your Project Team
- Tips To Empower Your People 20
- Zen of Team Handling for Software Projects
- 25 Ways to Motivate Your People Without Giving Financial Rewards!
- How Do You Know Your Team Is Motivated 30
- Seven Promises That I and My Project Team Members Make To Ourselves


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