Lead, don't "manage"

📊 Did you know? Only 36% of employees feel genuinely cared for at work. Yet, businesses with high employee engagement see 23% higher profitability.

These stats hit home for me because I've always believed that great teams are built on trust, not timesheets.

When you put people first, magic happens. That means understanding that life doesn't run on a 9-5 schedule. Sick child? Take care of them. Not feeling well yourself? Rest up. Because you're not measured by hours at a desk – you're measured by your passion and output.

What makes me proudest? It's not the projects we've delivered (though they're brilliant). It's the messages I still get from past team members asking for references or reaching out for advice. That's when you know you've built something special – when the connections outlast the reporting lines.

My approach is simple:

• Give people space to grow

  
  

• Trust them to own their responsibilities

  
  

• Support them through life's ups and downs

  
  
  
  

• Focus on outcomes, not office time

Because here's the truth: Teams don't thrive despite flexibility and care – they thrive because of it.

What's your experience with building strong teams? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

#LeadershipDevelopment #PeopleFirst #TeamCulture #NZBusiness #WorkplaceCulture