Assume the Best and Watch Them Shine

Today, I want to share a leadership thought that has profoundly impacted my journey:

“Assume the best in those you lead and point out their strengths. Then sit back and watch them exceed expectations.”

It may sound simple, but the results are nothing short of magical. When we operate under the belief that our team members are capable of greatness and when we point out their strengths, we create an environment of trust and encouragement. 

This shifts the focus from what people are doing wrong to what they’re doing right—and that shift? 

It can transform their entire approach to their work. People rise to the occasion when they feel truly seen and valued.

Working with dozens of credit union leaders, I have seen this play out time and time again. 

One leader recently shared with me that she was struggling with how she was seeing and connecting with her team. She wanted to see the best in them, but what she saw more often was this issue. The gap areas. The mistakes and the impacts on her team and membership. 

So we dove deep into why this was happening and I shared a few key frameworks to help her address those issues from a place of strength. She started seeing their talents, even through failures and was able to speak directly to them. 

Just recently she shared, “Michael, my team is really moving forward with this new approach! They know where I stand and they are making changes! It’s amazing to see their growth and it’s crazy how much of a difference my starting place with them makes. They are more effective, efficient, and serving each other in ways I have never seen!”

Practical Application: 3 Ways to Bring Out the Best in Your Team

Here are 3 key ways to foster this positive environment and unlock your team’s full potential:

1. Spot Their Strengths
   To lead effectively, understand what makes each team member tick. Look beyond their job descriptions and ask questions that help uncover their hidden talents and natural abilities. Pay attention to what excites them at work, and take time to listen to their career aspirations. This is why I deploy Clifton Strengths assessments with every leadership team I work with.

2. Give Props Where Props Are Due
   Recognition is powerful. Be specific with your praise—highlighting exactly what someone did well shows that you’re paying attention. And remember, public praise can be incredibly motivating, but make sure you also know when a private "thank you" feels more meaningful. Consistent, sincere recognition goes a long way in making people feel valued.

3. Set Clear and Meaningful Goals
   Goals provide direction and purpose. But don't just hand out tasks—make sure the goals are challenging yet attainable, with clear steps along the way. Revisit these goals often and make adjustments as necessary to keep everyone aligned and motivated.

3 Power Questions to Reflect On:

• What are the unique strengths of each team member that I might not be seeing?

• How can I offer more specific recognition to people for their contributions?

• What challenges can I give my team to help them grow?

When you assume the best in your team, provide them with clear goals, and offer consistent support, you’ll see results that go beyond expectations.

This approach doesn’t just foster success—it creates a workplace where people want to give their best every day.

We’re excited to support your leadership journey with actionable insights and fresh perspectives. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts!