In October this year, Hazelle joined our team in the role of Business Support Administrator. Hazelle has been an absolute lifesaver for the Training & Assessment team. Recently we had our one-month check in with Hazelle to see how she was doing in her new role and whether she had any challenges, wins or improvements she wanted to share with us.
Hazelle talked about our passion and support and how this motivated her to do her best in her role as well. When she mentioned this of course my brain goes straight back to an ISO Standard – yeah, I know I can’t help myself! I thought of the Leadership and commitment requirements and specifically the requirement for Top management to engage, direct and support people to contribute to the effectiveness of the system.
I asked Hazelle to share her story so that others can see what this might look like in a business. Now I don’t want to blow my own trumpet here and we don’t always get it right, however this is a learning opportunity for us here at ATOL as well as any other Quality Leader, Quality Manager and ISO Consultant.
Meet Hazelle Austria, Business Support Administrator for Auditor Training Online and her insight regarding leadership.
Two weeks ago, marked my first month at ATOL, and today I wanted to share my experience being part of the ATOL Team.
Well, to be honest during the hiring period I got this fear that I experienced some pressure as the company I was joining was known for training auditors and adhering to ISO standards. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I started. From the beginning, they warmly welcomed me, and I didn't find it difficult because they were very approachable. They were highly organized and practiced what they taught to their students, both in front of them and behind the scenes, truly embodying the meaning of quality in our work.
In that first month, their expressions of amazement at my initiative and performance were humbling. What they didn't know was that their support played a significant role, inspiring me to do more and give my best to help them.
These are the valuable aspects of working with the ATOL team that I truly appreciate:
• Practicing what they teach: I saw them directly involved in procedures and task processes. Though it was challenging at first as I familiarized myself with their manuals, I realized they were teaching me to work independently, which saved time.
Why it Matters: This fosters a culture of hands-on learning and sets a practical example for team members. It not only enhances understanding but also encourages independence in handling tasks.
• Openness to Feedback and Communication They take suggestions positively. Similarly, they are clear about areas where I can improve but do so in a helpful way.
Why it Matters: Creating an environment where feedback is welcomed promotes continual improvement. Clear communication channels ensure that everyone is on the same page, leading to enhanced collaboration and understanding.
• Responsiveness and Approachability: Despite their busy schedules, they always lend a hand when I need help with unfamiliar tasks. Their quick responses make me feel comfortable, reducing hesitation when I face challenges.
Why it Matters: In a dynamic work environment, the willingness to assist and quick responses are crucial. It cultivates a sense of support and comfort, reducing hesitation and fostering a more efficient workflow.
• Intentional in knowing their workers: They go beyond work-related discussions, taking time to check on other aspects of my life. This personal touch contributes to a positive working environment. As employees, we feel valued when they show genuine interest in our well-being, even sharing moments of humor.
Why it Matters: Beyond professional aspects, acknowledging personal facets of team members builds a positive workplace culture. Feeling valued as individuals, employees become more engaged and committed to their work.
• Unleashing Full Potential: They regularly check if I'm comfortable with specific tasks, providing opportunities for learning and growth. They also identify my passions, recently involving me in discussions about marketing. They stress the importance of assigning tasks based on individual strengths, believing that the right people in the right places lead to progression.
Why it Matters: Recognizing and tapping into individual strengths and passions leads to improved job satisfaction and performance. This approach aligns tasks with personal interests, promoting continuous growth and innovation.
“The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.”
– Alvin Toffler (Futurist and author of Future Shock)
• Setting Clear Goals and Vision: They set clear goals for the team, enhancing my sense of accountability for my tasks. Knowing the team's direction inspires me to take the initiative and contribute to achieving broader objectives. Witnessing their commitment to fulfilling the team's vision motivates me further.
Why it Matters: Clear goals provide direction and purpose, fostering a sense of accountability and commitment. Knowing the team's vision inspires proactivity and a collective effort toward overarching objectives, creating a unified and motivated team.
What I've come to realize is that there is a significant impact on producing quality work when the work environment is positive. Quality Standards + Right way of dealing with people = A team that is inspired to produce quality work. It's just wonderful and feels light to experience this with them. I'm grateful for the enriching experience and the supportive, inspiring environment for personal and professional growth at ATOL. I consider myself blessed to have a team like them.
Quality work forms the bedrock of any organization aspiring to excellence. It manifests through a culture that prioritizes skill mastery, adherence to standards, keen attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to continual advancement.
Employees who embody these principles become the driving force behind their organization's reputation for excellence. Their diligence ensures that the quality of their work consistently exceeds expectations, setting the stage for peak organizational performance.
The role of effective interpersonal skills in the workplace cannot be overstated. These skills weave the fabric of a cohesive team environment, promoting clear and empathetic communication, active listening, and a climate where constructive feedback is both given and received with the intent of fostering personal and professional growth. This creates a workplace where individuals feel valued and understood, enhancing their engagement and dedication to their roles.
Optimal performance is the pinnacle for any team, achieved through the harmonious integration of quality work and superior interpersonal skills. It's characterized by a workforce that excels not only in technical abilities but also in collaboration and innovation.
In an environment where individuals’ strengths are recognized and nurtured, where open communication and mutual support prevail, employees are more likely to take initiative, embrace challenges, and drive progress. Such a balanced approach to work culture elevates the overall output and satisfaction levels across the organization, leading to sustained success and growth.
The Harvard Business Review (HBR) article What makes an Inclusive Leader found that the impact of leadership on promoting an inclusive work environment is substantial. Leaders can impact their team's sense of belonging and psychological safety by up to 70%, with inclusive leadership linked to a 17% improvement in team performance, 20% better decision-making, and 29% enhanced team collaboration. Moreover, such leadership significantly reduces the likelihood of employee turnover. Given their profound influence, it's imperative to view traits like humility, curiosity, and empathy as essential leadership skills rather than mere desirable qualities.
1. Review your system and develop skills to meet Quality Work requirements
2. Instill clear communication, active listening and empathy to meet Effective Interpersonal Skills
3. Work with an expert
This article is just the beginning. Join us for the extended discussion on the podcast, available on Spotify and YouTube.