I happened to run in to this article in Apple News today. It explains some of the major problems at Wells Fargo today. The best path to success at Wells Fargo will come from a leadership who invests in and empowers their employees, respects and values their employees, and leads with integrity.
INC Magazine
- Neglecting the career growth of employees.
According to a new study from online scheduling platform Doodle, 50 percent of employees said their careers have stalled or even regressed. Organizations need to bring mentorship and career development to the forefront of their corporate strategy, mission, values, and culture.
- Lacking respect for employees.
In a recent poll conducted by ResumeLab on what makes someone a terrible manager, it was found that an alarming 72 percent of the surveyed population was treated in a disrespectful manner by a bad boss. An eye-popping 42 percent of toxic bosses blamed others for their failures, which 84 percent of employees feel is unfair.
- Treating people like worker bees.
Many workers in a crisis are forced to serve the wishes of a stressed-out, top-down hierarchy in order to drive the bottom line and make shareholders happy. There is typically little regard for employees' happiness or well-being, which is the opposite of what you want these days. Consequently, people's personal or family lives are sacrificed for the job because overwork is common. As a result, you'll encounter high levels of stress, burnout, and ultimately, employee turnover.
- Failing to put people first.
While many HR execs have cut back on employee benefits and decreased wages, other top leaders I've spoken with are taking an alternative approach in response to the pandemic by continuing to invest in their people. Because when you take care of your people, they'll take care of your customers. And the rest will fall in line.
- Inability to communicate well.
In my work coaching leaders, communication issues are common. Too much of it, not enough of it, wrong messages being sent. Whatever form it comes in, poor communication can affect work morale, disengage your employees, and dissatisfy your customers. Whatever the case, one thing should be crystal clear: Communication, whether interpersonal or organizational, is a necessity for success.
- Commanding instead of influencing.
Leaders must remind themselves that leadership is not dictating, commanding, or imposing. It is being of service to others–employees first, customers second. Influence means empowering others to achieve their goals, bringing out the best in people, putting their needs ahead of your own (as a leader), and helping them develop. The behaviors that lead to influence point back to character. It is who you are, not what you do.
- Lacking integrity in decision-making.
When questionable decisions for financial gain or personal benefit are made, employees know. And if they know, you've already lost the battle for respect. But if you lead by example and show integrity in your decision-making, it says a lot about you – the person. Who you are as a person in relation to others will ultimately determine your level of success.