Transcript
Transcript: Psychosocial Factor 3: Clear Leadership and Expectations
Think of a time at work when you were given direction that was unclear.
Did it happen often? Did it create conflict?
Clear leadership and expectations can make a big difference in a workplace. Take Tim for example. Tim wrote a report for his supervisor last week that he thought was urgent. His supervisor returned his report with a note saying "Needs more work." There was no other feedback… no meeting to clarify… no phone message… no edits on the document… nothing but the note. This is an ongoing problem in Tim's workplace. Tim feels frustrated and doesn't really trust his supervisor anymore.
What would clear leadership and expectations look like in a healthy workplace?
Well… everyone in a healthy workplace knows what they need to do. They know how the things they do contribute to the workplace as a whole. They are told in a timely way if there are any changes happening in with the workplace. When workplaces have clear leadership and expectations:
- Morale is positive even during times of change or high stress.
- There's usually more trust between leaders and workers.
Leaders value everyone’s psychological and physical health… and they model positive healthy behaviours to their workers.
Clear two-way communication is very important in a workplace. Sometimes it takes time to get to know your supervisor and their expectations. Everyone in a workplace has a responsibility to ask questions if they don't understand-whether you are an employee, supervisor or manager.
As a supervisor, make it very clear what you want, when you want it by, and who you want involved.
As an employee, don't be afraid to ask questions to clarify. Being open to talking about the size of a task, how long it should take, when to ask for support, even just flat out asking "what do you expect of me"- are all helpful.
After watching this video, how do you intend to be clear with your expectations today?
Clear leadership and expectations is one of 13 factors that support psychological health and safety in the workplace. Learn more at: MentalHealthCommission.ca/NationalStandard
For more resources for your workplace, check out haveTHATtalk.ca
Developed in collaboration by Ottawa Public Health and the Mental Health Commission of Canada.
With content adapted with permission from Mindful Employer Canada
And support from Bell Let's Talk.
