Team Productivity Lagging? 3 Signs to Watch For

If you are a team leader you know that team productivity is rarely constant.  We all have our times of being super productive.  And we all go through times when we just can’t seem to get the creative juices and driving energy flowing.  Many times, it’s just the normal ebb and flow of our own inner spark.  But sometimes things are happening with a team member that can be a big problem for both them and the team.

Unless you’re a slave-driving manager, you are likely to notice more than just the results your team produces.   Your company should have regular review sessions to stay aware of how each employee is doing.  While you can’t get too personal, it’s okay to ask how life in general is going and how the job is working for them.  That might uncover things for which the employee can benefit from having HR or even professional counseling.  If your company doesn’t have a regular drug testing policy, it might want to consider adding one.  Drug and marijuana testing is great for examining employees on a periodic basis and will help to be sure they’re not engaging in illegal or prohibited behavior.

Beyond that, as a team leader or manager you should be alert for signs that indicate it’s not just a normal productivity fluctuation, but that something more serious is in play.  Here are three common signs to watch for.

Signs That A Drop In Team Productivity Need More Attention

1. Changes in demeanor.  We all have normal variations in how we show up.  But noticeable changes is demeanor can be a signal that professional help may be helpful or necessary.  While some people are naturally more subdued than others, variations outside the norm are frequently indicative of outside factors.
2. Changes in physical appearance.  Everyone is entitled to look and dress how they choose.  Of course, that has to fit company policy.  But relatively sudden weight gain or loss, or the style or quality of dress, are usually not just an accident.
3. Increased absences.  Again, we all have our norm for the amount of PTO and sick days we take advantage of.  But again it’s changes in the norm that are a sign that there’s something affecting attendance.

As a team leader or employer, it’s not your job to interfere in people’s personal lives.  But being aware of telltale signs not only serves the team and business, it can serve to help the employee back on the right track by appropriate counseling or professional help.  And that makes it a true win-win.