Consistency
In recent times it has just really occurred to me that consistency is a big part of what makes up success. The dictionary defines the word consistent as acting or doing things the same way over time, especially so as to be fair or accurate. It is to be unchanging in nature, standard, or effect over time. In the workplace, consistency is key.
Leaders are responsible for creating an environment where employees can happily put more effort into their jobs. A healthy work environment is vital to remain consistently consistent at work. Consistent employees are likely to perform better at work than employees who don’t perfectly fit in their workplace environment.
Ever-changing work expectations, contradictory business decisions and erratic management can be very confusing, but consistency helps employees feel secure about their work responsibilities and workplace demands.
Consistency builds trust on three levels. Dependable working conditions, clearly defined goals and predictable job demands, create a work environment that’s reliable. Employees don’t have to try to figure out if they are meeting expectations or if their boss is dissatisfied with their performance. Managers don’t have to micromanage subordinates who in turn feel secure about their duties. Each worker knows what they must contribute to the project, so tasks aren’t overlooked or ignored.
Consistency builds respect. Up-holding consistent values, maintaining short- and long-term priorities and communicating strategically helps co-workers, subordinates and supervisors see you as competent. An individual’s consistency in the workplace builds respect both for them and the organisation.
Consistency breeds credibility. A manager’s reputation is built on the policies they enforce, actions they reward and pursuits they fund. Employees notice when their boss values hard work, praises work accomplishments and supports healthy office communication. A supervisor sets the tone for their subordinates. “Can your employees count on you?” “Are your expectations fair and consistent?” “Do you treat your subordinates fairly? Your credibility can most likely make or break your role as a manager.
Positive workplace decisions stem from rational and reliable behaviour. The ability to eliminate emotional decisions, as opposed to haphazard and inconsistent behaviour, makes the difference in a company’s long-term survival. Whether you are an entry-level employee or a supervisor, consistent rational decisions help you stand out as a dependable and trustworthy worker. Clients depend on you, co-workers need you and managers can’t get work done without you, so rational behaviour gives them a reason to trust your workplace decisions.
A stress -free office environment helps to build consistency. It could be easily developed by enabling employees to take short breaks to ease a build-up of stress which boosts productivity. Conflicts must be kept to a minimum. They must be resolved quickly and effectively once they come up. Conflicts will always manifest but employees must know that you will be consistent in their resolution
Building an effective communication system helps with work place consistency. Consistency in instructions, accolades and discipline are passed by communication. Without effective communication, operations might slow down or be stopped. Effective communication empowers everybody to collaborate in a crystal -clear manner.
One of the best tactics for effective communication is regular meetings top, down and across board. These meetings enable employees, voice new ideas confidently. This helps the organisation to consistently improve product development, customer service and operations.
The organisation should consistently provide learning opportunities. These days we actually tell people to get their own learning, but we know that there is a place for structured organisational learning. This most consistently enhances the performance of the workforce.
The truth is that in every kind of relationship, consistency is a key factor. I remember very many years ago, I used to make a home- made drink from some flowers. I have a brother who is a professor of pharmacy. He offered to help me get some measurements to make each batch. When I asked why, he said it was so it could taste the same every time. He gave the analogy of a popular soft drink’s consistent taste. Nobody would buy it if they were not sure what it would taste like. People need to always know what to expect from you.
Consistency is brand building. What is a brand? It is the portion of a customer’s heart, mind and pocket that belongs to you. In today’s world where there are so many brands and they are all so easily accessible, right round the globe, there must be a way to distinguish yourself.
This is why not many people want to work for a one-man company, as they usually have no structures in place or flagrantly flout the structures. Consistency makes both staff and customers happy. As you can see from above, it is not only the responsibility of the organisation.
Have a great weekend. We honestly don’t know when the pandemic will be over so keep safe and even in your individual life, be consistent.
Balogun