Prioritising Your Mental Health

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to neglect our mental health.

However, taking proactive steps to improve ourselves can profoundly impact our well-being.

From practising self-care to cultivating positive habits, here’s how improving yourself can lead to better mental health:

Prioritise Self-Care

  • Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for maintaining good mental health. Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether taking a bubble bath, going for a walk in nature, or practising mindfulness meditation, prioritise self-care as a non-negotiable part of your routine.

Cultivate Healthy Habits

  • Healthy habits, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep, are crucial for physical and mental well-being. Aim to incorporate these habits into your daily life, as they can boost your mood, reduce stress, and increase overall resilience.

Set Boundaries

  • Learning to set boundaries is essential for protecting your mental health. Be assertive about your needs and limitations, and don’t be afraid to say no to commitments or requests that drain your energy or cause undue stress. Establishing healthy boundaries fosters self-respect and reduces feelings of overwhelm.

Practice Mindfulness

  • Mindfulness involves being present in the moment and non-judgmentally observing your thoughts and feelings. Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing exercises, body scans, or mindful eating, can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and enhance overall mental clarity.

Challenge Negative Self-Talk

    • Negative self-talk can be detrimental to your mental health, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Practice self-compassion by challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with more positive and empowering beliefs. Cultivate self-acceptance and celebrate your strengths and accomplishments.

Engage in Lifelong Learning

  • Lifelong learning is not only intellectually stimulating but also beneficial for mental health. Explore new interests, hobbies, or skills that ignite your passion and curiosity. Whether learning a new language, taking up a musical instrument, or enrolling in an online course, continuous learning fosters personal growth and enhances self-esteem.

Seek Support

  • Don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed. Whether talking to a trusted friend or family member, seeking guidance from a mental health professional, or joining a support group, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Surround yourself with a supportive network of people who uplift and empower you.

Practice Gratitude

  • Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can have profound effects on your mental well-being. Take time each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for, no matter how small. Keeping a gratitude journal or simply expressing appreciation for the people and experiences in your life can shift your focus from negativity to positivity.

Embrace Imperfection

  • Perfectionism can be a significant source of stress and anxiety. Embrace the idea that you don’t have to be perfect to be worthy of love and acceptance. Allow yourself to make mistakes, learn from them, and grow stronger as a result. Embracing imperfection fosters resilience and promotes a healthier mindset.

Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

  • Finally, remember that personal growth is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and recognize that self-improvement is an ongoing process. Focus on the positive changes you’re making and trust your ability to continue moving forward.

By prioritising self-care, cultivating healthy habits, setting boundaries, practising mindfulness, challenging negative self-talk, engaging in lifelong learning, seeking support, practising gratitude, embracing imperfection, and celebrating progress, you can better yourself and, in turn, enhance your mental health. Remember that self-improvement is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, and every step you take towards bettering yourself brings you closer to a happier and more fulfilling life.

Handling Microstress At Your Job

The well-being of employees is paramount to the success of any organisation. While major stressors such as heavy workloads and tight deadlines are recognised and addressed, the concept of micro stresses is gaining attention for its subtle yet impactful influence on employee health and performance.

What are Microstresses?

Microstresses are small, everyday stressors that individuals experience regularly in the workplace. Unlike major stressors that may be more easily identified, micro stresses are often subtle and cumulative, building up over time. These stressors can result from various sources, including interpersonal interactions, organisational culture, and environmental factors.

Examples of microstresses include subtle biases, feelings of exclusion, low-level conflicts, and communication challenges. While each instance may seem minor on its own, the cumulative effect can contribute to increased levels of stress, decreased job satisfaction, and impaired overall well-being.

Implications for Employees

Microstresses can significantly impact employee engagement, motivation, and performance. When employees consistently experience these subtle stressors, it can lead to a decline in mental and emotional well-being, increased absenteeism, and decreased productivity. Moreover, unresolved microstresses can contribute to a toxic work culture, affecting employee morale and teamwork.

Implications for Businesses

From a business perspective, the negative consequences of micro stresses can extend beyond the individual employee. A workplace culture that tolerates or overlooks microstresses may face challenges in talent retention, recruitment, and overall employee satisfaction. This can result in higher turnover rates and increased recruitment costs. Furthermore, a stressed workforce is more likely to experience burnout, impacting creativity, innovation, and the company’s ability to adapt to change.

Addressing Microstresses: Strategies for HR and Business Owners

Awareness and Education

  • HR professionals and business owners should invest in training programs to raise awareness about micro stresses among employees.
  • They should also promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to address biases and foster a more inclusive workplace.

Open Communication Channels

  • Create a culture of open communication where employees feel comfortable discussing concerns and providing feedback.
  • Regularly solicit employee feedback through surveys or focus groups to identify and address potential micro stressors.

Promote Work-Life Balance

  • Encourage and model healthy work-life balance to reduce the overall stress levels in the workplace.
  • Implement flexible work arrangements to accommodate individual needs and preferences.

Conflict Resolution and Mediation

  • Develop and implement effective conflict resolution and mediation processes to address interpersonal issues promptly.
  • Provide training for managers on effective communication and conflict resolution skills.

Wellness Programs

  • Introduce wellness programs that focus on mental health, stress management, and mindfulness.
  • Offer resources such as counselling services or employee assistance programs to support employees facing personal or professional challenges.

Leadership Training

  • Provide leadership training to managers to help them recognise and address micro stresses within their teams.
  • Foster a leadership style that promotes empathy, understanding, and active listening.

Recognising and addressing micro stresses is crucial for creating a positive and productive work environment.

By adopting a strategic approach that involves awareness, open communication, and proactive interventions, HR professionals and business owners can mitigate the negative impact of micro stresses on individual employees and the organisation’s overall health. Prioritising employee well-being enhances workplace satisfaction and contributes to long-term business success.

8 Skills That Could Make Or Break Your Career’s Next Decade

In the ever-evolving landscape of the business world, staying ahead requires both adaptability and a proactive approach to acquiring essential skills. As we look ahead to the next decade, specific business-related skills are poised to become increasingly invaluable.

Here are key competencies that could make all the difference in your career trajectory over the next 10 years.

Digital Literacy

With the rapid advancement of technology, digital literacy is no longer a bonus but a necessity. Understanding digital tools, data analysis, and various online platforms will be crucial across industries. Embrace the digital realm to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in a tech-driven future.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

As we enter the age of big data, the ability to analyze and interpret data will be a game-changer. Organizations rely on data-driven insights for decision-making, and professionals who can extract meaningful information from data sets will be in high demand. Investing in data analysis skills today will undoubtedly pay off in the future.

Adaptability and Flexibility

The only constant is change, and this adage holds truer than ever. Adaptability and flexibility will be key as industries continue to transform. Individuals who can quickly pivot, learn new skills, and adapt to changing circumstances will thrive in the dynamic business environment of the next decade.

Emotional Intelligence

Soft skills, particularly emotional intelligence, will be pivotal in professional success. The ability to understand and manage emotions, both yours and those of others, fosters effective communication, collaboration, and leadership. Cultivate your emotional intelligence to excel in interpersonal relationships, a skill highly prized in any business setting.

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

As automation takes over routine tasks, the value of human skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving increases. Analysing complex situations, thinking critically, and devising innovative solutions will set you apart. These skills are relevant and indispensable in a business landscape that demands constant innovation.

Entrepreneurial Mindset

Whether you’re an entrepreneur or part of a larger organization, cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset is vital. This involves embracing a proactive, innovative approach to challenges, a willingness to take calculated risks, and seeing opportunities where others may not. An entrepreneurial mindset fosters a spirit of innovation and resilience.

Cultural Competence:

With globalization continuing to shape the business landscape, cultural competence has become a valuable asset. The ability to work effectively across diverse cultures, understand different perspectives, and navigate global business practices is essential. Cultivating cultural competence will be vital for professionals engaged in international markets.

Strategic Networking

Building and maintaining professional connections has always been important, but in the next decade, strategic networking will be a skill that can significantly impact your career trajectory. Developing meaningful relationships within and outside your industry can open doors to opportunities, collaboration, and valuable insights.

As we prepare for the future, it’s evident that the business landscape will continue to evolve rapidly. By proactively developing these essential skills, you can future-proof your career and position yourself as an invaluable asset in the dynamic business world.

Embrace a commitment to lifelong learning, stay adaptable, and watch your professional journey flourish in the next 10 years and beyond.

Combatting End Of Year Burnout

Increased workloads, looming deadlines, holiday stress, and the pressure to achieve year-end goals often create an emotional mess of exhaustion and overwhelm and can lead to end-of-year burnout.

But why is this a concern for you?

End-of-year burnout is a prevalent issue, often exacerbated by a combination of factors.

The convergence of professional and personal demands during this time can create a perfect storm, leading to fatigue and decreased motivation. Additionally, the anticipation of a new year may intensify feelings of reflection and self-evaluation, contributing to an elevated sense of stress.

Understanding the root causes allows us to implement targeted strategies to mitigate the effects and finish the year positively.

Is there an instant solution to sidestep end-of-year burnout? Not exactly, but we can incorporate minor adjustments into our work routines that might alleviate the burden, reducing mental and physical exhaustion by a margin. The intention is to make the end of the year a bit more manageable, with the hope that, in the long run, it becomes significantly less taxing.

Common Symptoms of End-of-Year Burnout:

  • Fatigue and Exhaustion: Feeling constantly tired, both physically and mentally, is a hallmark of burnout. The persistent weariness can impact overall productivity and well-being.
  • Decreased Motivation: A decline in enthusiasm and motivation to complete tasks is a common sign of burnout. Simple activities that once brought joy may now seem daunting.
  • Irritability and Frustration: Increased stress levels can manifest in irritability, making it challenging to interact positively with others.
  • Difficulty Concentrating: Burnout often leads to a lack of focus and difficulty concentrating on tasks, contributing to a sense of being overwhelmed.

Best-Practice Strategies For End Of Year Burnout 

Prioritise and Organise (End-of-Year Burnout Solutions):

  • Break down tasks into manageable goals.
  • Prioritize based on urgency and importance.

Set Realistic Goals (Coping with Stress and Increasing Productivity):

  • Establish achievable objectives to avoid overwhelm.
  • Adjust expectations to reduce self-imposed pressure.

Establish Boundaries (Navigating Year-End Stress):

  • Clearly define work hours to prevent overworking.
  • Communicate availability to colleagues and family.

Self-Care Practices (Renewed Energy Strategies):

  • Prioritize self-care activities for physical and mental rejuvenation.
  • Ensure sufficient sleep to support overall well-being.

Reflect and Reassess (Year-End Burnout Solutions):

  • Reflect on achievements throughout the year.
  • Reassess goals for the upcoming year, setting realistic targets.

Seek Support (Overcoming End-of-Year Burnout):

  • Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues for understanding.
  • Consider professional support from therapists or counsellors.

Understanding and addressing end-of-year burnout is crucial for a smooth transition into the new year. By implementing these strategies, you can overcome burnout and approach the upcoming year with renewed energy and productivity.

Remember, acknowledging and proactively managing end-of-year burnout is the first step towards a healthier and more prosperous future.

The Transformative Power of Upskilling: Unlocking a World of Opportunities

In the ever-evolving landscape of the professional world, the commitment to continuous learning has become advantageous and essential. One of the most effective ways to stay ahead of the curve is through upskilling, acquiring new skills or refining existing ones.

This proactive approach to personal and professional development offers many benefits that extend far beyond the immediate enhancement of your skill set.

Adaptability in a Dynamic Work Environment

The workplace is undergoing rapid transformations driven by technological advancements and changing industry landscapes. Upskilling ensures that you remain adaptable and agile, equipped to navigate through new challenges and embrace emerging opportunities. As industries evolve, those with updated skills are better positioned to contribute meaningfully and take on leadership roles.

Enhanced Employability

In a competitive job market, employers seek individuals with a diverse skill set. Upskilling not only makes you more attractive to potential employers but also increases your chances of securing coveted roles. Demonstrating a commitment to staying current in your field showcases a proactive mindset that is highly valued by hiring managers.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Upskilling serves as a catalyst for career progression. Acquiring new competencies opens doors to promotions, leadership roles, and specialised positions within your organisation. It positions you as an invaluable asset, capable of tackling complex challenges and contributing to the strategic growth of your company.

Increased Job Satisfaction

Engaging in continuous learning can foster a sense of accomplishment and job satisfaction. Mastering new skills not only boosts confidence but also introduces variety and intellectual stimulation into your professional life. This renewed enthusiasm can have a positive impact on your overall job satisfaction and mental well-being.

Future-Proofing Your Career

Technological advancements, automation, and artificial intelligence are reshaping industries. Upskilling allows you to future-proof your career by staying ahead of technological trends and ensuring that you remain relevant in a rapidly changing job market. It positions you as a forward-thinking professional ready to embrace the challenges of tomorrow.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, upskilling opens avenues for innovation and the pursuit of new business ventures. Whether acquiring digital marketing skills or mastering coding languages, a diversified skill set can empower you to launch and manage your own business successfully.

Networking and Collaboration

Engaging in upskilling often involves connecting with fellow learners, mentors, and industry experts. This networking opportunity not only expands your professional circle but also creates a collaborative environment where knowledge sharing and idea generation thrive. Such connections can be invaluable for future collaborations and career growth.

Personal Growth and Confidence Building

Beyond professional benefits, upskilling contributes to personal growth. Learning new skills challenges you intellectually, fosters a sense of curiosity, and builds resilience. As you conquer new challenges, your confidence grows, enhancing your overall sense of self-efficacy.

The benefits of upskilling extend far beyond acquiring new technical abilities. It is a holistic approach to personal and professional development that equips you with the tools needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Employee Rewards Can Pay Dividends In The Long Run

Employee recognition and rewards are not just buzzwords but essential components of a thriving and motivated workforce.

Recognising and rewarding employees for their hard work and achievements can boost morale, increase job satisfaction, and enhance overall productivity.

Let’s delve into the significance of rewarding employees and explore some effective ways to do it.

Why Rewarding Employees Matters:

  • Boosted Morale: When employees feel appreciated and valued, it boosts their morale and enthusiasm. This positive energy can be contagious and create a more vibrant and productive work environment.
  • Increased Productivity: Recognized and motivated employees tend to be more engaged and productive. They are more likely to go the extra mile to meet and exceed their goals.
  • Retention and Loyalty: A workforce that feels appreciated is more likely to stay with the company. Employee turnover is costly, and retention can lead to cost savings in recruiting and training.
  • Enhanced Company Culture: Regular recognition and rewards help create a culture of appreciation within the organization, making it a more pleasant place to work.
  • Improved Teamwork: Recognized employees are often more willing to collaborate and contribute to team efforts. This can improve overall teamwork and group dynamics.

Effective Ways to Reward Employees:

  • Verbal Praise: A simple “thank you” or a few words of appreciation can go a long way. Personalized verbal recognition is easy to implement and highly effective.
  • Written Recognition: A handwritten note, email, or formal letter of appreciation can be very meaningful. It allows you to express your gratitude in a tangible way.
  • Gift Cards or Vouchers: Consider providing gift cards or vouchers for employees to spend on something they like. This allows them to choose their reward.
  • Team Lunch or Event: Organize a team lunch, dinner, or celebratory event to recognize a group’s achievement. This encourages camaraderie and boosts morale.
  • Flexibility and Time Off: Offer flexible work arrangements or extra time off as a reward for hard work. This provides a work-life balance benefit.
  • Monetary Rewards: Bonuses, pay raises, or profit-sharing can be significant monetary rewards for employees. These tangible incentives can motivate and recognize their efforts.
  • Professional Development Opportunities: Offer training, courses, or opportunities for skill enhancement. This shows a commitment to the employee’s growth and development.

The Art of Timely Recognition:

Timeliness is key when it comes to recognition and rewards. Make sure to acknowledge and reward employees promptly after their achievement. This reinforces the connection between their actions and the recognition received.

Recognizing and rewarding employees is a fundamental practice for fostering a positive work environment and motivating your workforce. It’s an investment in your team’s morale, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. Tailor your recognition and rewards to suit your workplace culture and the preferences of your employees, and watch your organization flourish.

Professional Seachange? It Could Be In Your Future…

Do you find yourself at work, day in and day out, with a nagging sense of stagnation? Does the thought of your job make it hard to get out of bed in the morning? If you’re nodding your head, you might require a professional seachange. But before you start thinking about making major life-altering decisions, let’s explore a few things.

Career progression is often viewed as a linear journey, moving from point A to B to C. Many of us believe that once we’re in a specific industry, we’re stuck there. And if you’re thinking about changing careers, it can indeed be a daunting and challenging task. You might have to start from scratch, undergo training, and take a step back in your current career.

Here, we’ll discuss three key factors to help you decide whether to stick with your current career or leap into something new.

  1. Your Current Work Environment

Do you enjoy the company culture? Do you get along well with your boss and colleagues? If the answer is yes, but you feel like you’re not growing as much as you’d like, it might be a good idea to stay put. You can consider engaging in self-education outside of work to further develop your skills. You can also talk to your superiors about taking on more challenging tasks that will help you broaden your expertise.

  1. Workplace Culture and Learning

If you’re in a job where the company culture is toxic, or if you’re struggling with leadership and office politics, but you’re still learning from your work, it’s worth staying for a while. These situations can be excellent opportunities to improve your stakeholder management skills. You’ll learn how to navigate difficult situations, influence others, and negotiate effectively, valuable skills in any career.

  1. Knowing When to Leave

On the other hand, if you’re not learning anything new, constantly bored, and can’t stand the company’s culture, it might be time to consider leaving. This decision can be particularly crucial if it’s negatively impacting your mental and physical health. Sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone is the best way to grow in your career.

Remember, challenging situations can indeed lead to career growth. However, it’s essential to assess whether these challenges are helping you develop in the right direction.

Ultimately, your career is a significant part of your life, and it’s important to find fulfilment and purpose in what you do. Whether you choose to stay and make the most of your current situation or take a leap of faith into a new career, the most crucial factor is ensuring you’re on a path that aligns with your goals and values.

How Can You Engage Your Employees Better?

Employee engagement is crucial for organisational success. Without employees who are engaged, your business has more risk and less opportunity to succeed.

An engaged employee is someone who is emotionally invested in their work, committed to the organisation’s goals, and motivated to contribute to its success.

Engaged employees go beyond simply fulfilling the basic requirements of their job; they actively seek ways to enhance their performance, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute innovative ideas.

Having strategies in place in the workplace to promote and contribute to employee engagement can lead to a positive and engaged workforce.

Clear Communication

Foster open and transparent communication channels. Keep employees informed about company goals, changes, and updates. Encourage two-way communication through regular town hall meetings, surveys, and feedback sessions. Having regular meetings with employees to check in can help re-engage employees.

Meaningful Recognition Programs:

Implement a robust employee recognition program that acknowledges and rewards employees for their hard work and achievements. Recognition can take various forms, including verbal praise, awards, and opportunities for career development.

Regular Feedback and Performance Reviews:

Provide consistent and constructive feedback on individual and team performance. Regular performance reviews can help employees understand their strengths, areas for improvement, and how their work contributes to the organisation’s overall success.

Professional Development Opportunities:

Invest in the continuous learning and development of employees. Offer training programs, workshops, and opportunities for skill enhancement. This not only benefits the individual employee but also contributes to the organization’s growth.

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Embrace flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options, flexible hours, or compressed workweeks. This shows trust in employees and acknowledges the importance of work-life balance.

Employee Wellness Programs:

Prioritise the well-being of employees by offering wellness programs. These can include health initiatives, mental health support, fitness programs, and stress management workshops.

Team-Building Activities:

Organise regular team-building activities to foster a sense of camaraderie among employees. This could include team outings, retreats, or virtual team-building activities for remote teams.

Inclusive Culture and Diversity Programs:

Cultivate an inclusive workplace culture where diversity is celebrated. Implement diversity and inclusion programs to ensure that all employees feel valued and included.

Leadership Development Programs:

Invest in leadership development programs to ensure that managers and leaders have the skills to effectively lead and inspire their teams.

Flexible Benefits Packages:

Provide a range of flexible benefits that cater to the diverse needs of employees, such as health insurance options, wellness benefits, and flexible spending accounts.

Employee Involvement in Decision-Making:

Involve employees in decision-making processes when feasible. This can include seeking input on projects, involving them in strategic planning, and encouraging innovation.

Celebrating Milestones and Achievements:

Recognize and celebrate both individual and team milestones and achievements. This can be done through internal communications, ceremonies, or small celebrations.

Encourage a Positive Work Environment:

Foster a positive work environment where employees feel comfortable, appreciated, and motivated. This includes maintaining a clean, comfortable physical workspace and promoting a positive organizational culture.

Remember, the key is to tailor these strategies to your business and team’s specific needs and culture. Regularly reassess the effectiveness of these initiatives and be willing to adapt and evolve them as the organization grows and changes.

Team Motivation Starts With You – 4 Tips For Inspiring Your Employees

The best way to drive profit as an employer is to inspire the team working for you.

Ensuring they are investing in the projects they are working on and sharing the same vision you have for the business will be the best strategy for long-term business success.

Provide Great Technology

By equipping your staff with updated and new software and hardware, you are providing them with opportunities to really get excited about their work.

Working with outdated equipment, such as computers with poor definition or a bad internet connection, will only frustrate employees, steering them away from performing their best. Investing in great technology will pay off in the long run with the higher quality of work that will be produced.

Encourage Risk Taking And Problem-Solving

If you hire a talented and resilient team, place trust in them to take risks. Playing it safe and doing things the same way they’ve always been done will see your business stay stagnant and prevent it from standing out amongst the competitors.

Encourage your staff to brainstorm ways to solve problems rather than dictating to them how to do their jobs. Give them freedom to challenge themselves and push the boundaries while guiding without controlling.

If you hire a strong team of professionals, give them an opportunity to put their skills into action. They are more likely to stay with the business long term too, which is an added bonus as you will save money on hiring and training costs.

Create A Team Atmosphere

Workplaces where employees feel a strong sense of belonging are the type of workplaces where employees thrive in terms of productivity, creativity and skill development.

The feeling an employee gets about their place of work and coming in each morning can make a huge difference when it comes to their attitude and producing high-quality work.

A strong team atmosphere also means employees are more likely to collaborate and seek help when faced with an obstacle rather than trying to overcome it alone.

Gratitude

There is always time in the day to recognise and show gratitude. Even if you are in a lull and your business isn’t performing as well as you’d like, you are still much better off financially than a lot of people.

By showing appreciation and vocalising gratitude to those that help you succeed, you are breaking down a big barrier that can often arise between employers and employees.

Expressing gratitude is not only a great way to inspire your staff, it’s also a common daily practice amongst many successful entrepreneurs.

Remember, you can be thankful for the smallest of things; such as thanking a staff member for staying back ten minutes, working into their lunch break or for lifting and motivating the team earlier in the week.

Delegation Is Not Loss Of Control, It’s A Sharing Of Responsibility

Learning to delegate tasks and responsibilities can be a challenging adjustment for many leaders and business owners.

While it is tempting to try to maintain control over all aspects of your business, there comes a time when there are simply not enough hours in the day. Effective and well-executed delegation can add considerable value to your business.

The most significant advantage is that once you have delegated some of your responsibilities to others you will be able to truly apply yourself to the more pressing or complex tasks that require your attention.

Additionally, you will be increasing the skill set of your staff members. This is not only beneficial for the business but also gives your employees a sense of pride and career progression.

Delegating a task to someone is also a fantastic opportunity to assess their potential for leadership or promotion.

One of the most important aspects of learning to delegate is choosing the right person. Consider their capacity to work independently, their interests and ambitions within the company, and whether or not the new responsibility will put a strain upon their current workload.

It is essential to explain to the person the reasons why you have chosen them, as well as the value of the delegated task.

This will demonstrate your appreciation for their efforts. You need to make sure that you have set aside adequate time to train them to do the new task.

It is also essential to avoid the temptation to watch over their shoulder and micro-manage. Instead, set them a time frame and when the task is completed, give them your full and honest feedback.

Once they have completed the task several times, if you are satisfied with their performance, you should sit down with them and discuss how the task can be incorporated into their regular responsibilities. It may be necessary for you to reduce their current workload.

You should also ensure that they feel sufficiently rewarded. While increased remuneration in the form of a salary increase or bonus may be unfeasible, taking them to lunch or sending an office-wide acknowledgment of thanks can go a long way.