It’s amazing how often best practices remain hidden below the radar in companies. Smart organizations are always looking for experienced people on the front line who have developed the most effective technique for accomplishing a task or responsibility—i.e., a best practice. Of course, the real trick is getting employees throughout the organization to adopt and consistently follow such best practices. Thorough training is the key:
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Employees must be introduced to the new technique and understand why it is considered a best practice.
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Employees need to learn how to execute the technique. That means having the steps demonstrated, broken down, and explained.
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Employees need to acquire the new technique by practicing it step by step, repeatedly.
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Employees need to integrate the new technique into their work routine and apply it consistently.
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Employees need to keep getting better at the new technique. That means continuing to practice mindfully (using a check-list as a job aid if necessary) even after the new technique becomes a habit.
- Employees need to get regular candid feedback from a manager with a good coaching style to help them keep fine-tuning —and to help them keep from slipping back into their old habits.