Organizations are always on the lookout for productivity drivers but have to be extremely careful so that teams do not burnout from overwork and overwhelm. A good leader must know how to identify these drivers and maximize each one efficiently in order to avoid attrition. Different organizations have different and unique needs. What is similar though is that all organizations have 3 complementaries of interconnectedness. What do we mean by “complementaries of interconnectedness?” These are relationships that revolve around employee relationships and their influence on how people get their work done. These 3 complementaries of interconnectedness are:
1. Vertical complementaries:
Vertical complementaries are the relationships that involve hierarchy. Productivity is often driven by the staff’s need to finish tasks and responsibilities. It also depends heavily on the involvement of leaders and their interaction with their staff. Examples of these relationships are: manager – crew/staff, supervisor-employee, team leader – team member, boss-employee, etc.
How to engage: Inspire greater productivity in direct reports by using good leadership, effective authority, and positive influence. Be transparent in expectations and offer continuous learning and upskilling. Recognition is also an important factor in maximizing productivity. Give credit where credit is due.
2. Horizontal complementaries:
Horizontal complementaries are the relationships between peers. Productivity is often driven by the team’s need to give valuable support and help each other through tasks and projects. It is also driven by the need to reduce role or task duplication and lessen bottlenecks. Examples of these relationships are: teammates, co-workers, crewmembers, staff members, colleagues from different departments, etc.
How to engage: Inspire maximum productivity in teams by refining and strengthening teamwork. First, identify specialties and strengths. Employees can always strengthen existing skills or learn new ones, so career development and continuous learning must always be on the table. Team members are not expected to excel in everything but a well-run team can play off each other’s strengths (for example, one employee can write well researched content and another can make eye-catching designs).
3. Radial complementaries:
Radial complementaries are the relationships that are not necessarily work related but are brought about by belonging to something larger than themselves. Their participation usually involves a sense of purpose and achievement, thus, a better sense of well-being. Examples of these relationships are: community involvement, volunteerism, club/organization/group membership, etc.
How to engage: Offer options for employees to participate in clubs or organizations such as cycling clubs, mom-centric groups, book clubs, etc. That will generate a sense of mastery and kinship which makes for happier and more productive people. If at all possible, employers could offer a paid leave for day/s taken off doing volunteer work – validation or proof of participation may or may not be required depending on policy.
Does your company offer all three complementaries? Which one is the most effective driver of productivity for you? Share your experience with us in the comments. Remember to work smart and be a blessing to someone today. Stay safe and healthy!
Written by Jaie O. TheHelp