What's your best tip for setting clear expectations with your team?

1 Define the scope and deliverables

The first step to setting clear expectations is to define the scope and deliverables of your project. What are the objectives, outcomes, and milestones you want to achieve? What are the roles and responsibilities of each team member? What are the quality standards and criteria for success? Write down these details and share them with your team, preferably in a document or a tool that everyone can access and refer to.

3 Involve your team in the process

The third step to setting clear expectations is to involve your team in the process. Don't just tell them what to do, but ask for their input, opinions, and suggestions. Listen to their concerns, challenges, and ideas, and address them accordingly. Encourage them to ask questions, share feedback, and raise issues. By involving your team in the process, you show them that you value their contributions, respect their perspectives, and trust their abilities.

4 Set SMART goals and track progress

The fourth step to setting clear expectations is to set SMART goals and track progress. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. These are the characteristics of effective goals that help you and your team focus on what matters, measure your results, and adjust your actions. To track progress, use tools and methods that allow you to monitor and report on your achievements, challenges, and learnings. For example, you can use dashboards, charts, checklists, or surveys.

5 Recognize and reward performance

The fifth step to setting clear expectations is to recognize and reward performance. Don't take your team's efforts and achievements for granted, but acknowledge and appreciate them. Give them positive and constructive feedback, celebrate their successes, and reward them with incentives, recognition, or opportunities. By recognizing and rewarding performance, you motivate your team, boost their morale, and reinforce your expectations.