What does permission have to do with employee engagement?

Permission.  This little word leads to the choices that we make each and every day.  We are taught in our current society that we must be given permission to do things.  The permission to go to the bathroom in school.  The permission to leave the house and play outside.  The permission to use the car.  Sometimes the permission is granted as a request, sometimes we make the request for permission.  What we become and the dreams that we dream so often come from the permission that others give us to create those dreams. 

I was coaching an employee this week.  I asked her what she would like to be doing in 3 years and 5 years.  She stated that she would like to be doing something in this same field, yet, with a different population.  I asked her why she is not doing it already, as it aligns with the organizations’ mission.  She stated that she did not know or think that she could.  I asked her why.  I never thought of it, was the response.  This. Is. Gold.  We just gave her permission AND she gave herself permission.

Outcome? An engaged employee.

Is the performance in your organization capped based on what you believe is possible?

We as HR, Managers, Business Owners and leaders have an obligation to innovate, to up-level and serve our communities.  What is stopping you from dreaming that big dream?  Yes, it still has to be aligned with the organization.  Yes, it still must be profitable.  Yes, it still must be of high quality.  Yet, what is your staff capable of that is not being shown and shared?

Give yourself permission to dream! Give yourself permission to create and propose your solutions.  Yet, ensure that you own it to execute it all the way through. Every dream is possible if you are committed to the outcomes.  The right people and resources will show up along the way. Take a moment to give yourself permission to think beyond the day to day tasks by using this set of questions:

• What is it that your HeaRt desires in your work role?  
• What would it look like?  
• Is this aligned with the mission and vision of the organization? 
• Can this be profitable? 
• Is this a large enough dream that you are willing to own it 100% and put it into action?  

Who needs to give you permission?  You need to give yourself permission!  What is one thing you will give yourself permission for today?

This could be as simple as reaching out and asking for another perspective on your structure and culture to innovate your business?  Are you ready?  Great! Give yourself permission. Schedule a call with us to discover what this can do for your organization.