While employees are largely responsible for their own success, managers play a significant supporting role. That support shouldn’t bleed over into micromanaging but instead, should provide employees with the tools and environment they need to excel. Here are a few of the most important things a manager can offer employees:

Training

A successful team starts with the right training. New employees, in particular, often need some extra guidance and resources to succeed. Rather than throwing them into the fire, so to speak, it’s up to their manager to give them the tools to get the job done. This isn’t only true of just new employees. Whether it’s a new computer system or new marketing platform, even senior loan officers will need some additional training from time to time. As a manager, identify the skills that are most crucial for success, and prioritize building those within your team. Encouraging professional development will also help your team stay up-to-date with the industry and strengthen your overall branch.

Encouragement

Often, unsatisfied employees who leave their jobs site management as a main reason for their unhappiness. This is usually due to a lack of appreciation, a lack of positivity, and a lack of room to grow. Recognize and celebrate accomplishments, and say thank you. Things can get busy, but when you forget to acknowledge the hard work of those around you, your team can quickly lose morale. In helping your employees strive for more, don’t overlook where they are now and the progress they’ve already made. Finally, set goals with your team members. Take time to meet regularly to establish new goals and to check in on progress towards older ones. Feeling like their manager is invested in their growth and success is a real motivator for many employees.

Communication

Employees need to know that they can trust you and communicate openly with you. Communicate clearly and frequently with employees, both in group meetings and one on one. Set a precedent in the office for open dialogue, so employees feel comfortable coming to you with questions and concerns. Build a relationship with each employee, so you can better understand their strengths, weaknesses, and where you can provide guidance.

Positivity

Leading a branch with a positive work culture goes a long way. Employees, of course, need the right training and tools to do their jobs well, but they also need an environment in which the can thrive. Aside from giving your support and guidance, employes need you to be friendly, respectful, and receptive to their needs and concerns. When you approach your work with positivity, you encourage your employees to do the same.

Trust

Your trust can fuel your employees’ drive. When you show that you trust in their ability to get the job done, and you give them the space to do it, they’ll usually step up to the plate. Of course, you can and should observe and check in along the way, but avoid micromanaging. When you micromanage, you take away the independence and accountability that drive high performance. And you also waste valuable time that could be spent elsewhere. One of the most important things you can give your employees to help them succeed is the space to do so.

To build a strong team of high-performing employees, managers need to invest in their employees’ success. Employees need a balanced approach from their manager, with both tools and training and the space to use them. Focus on setting your team members up for success, and let them take over from there.