Julie Magnuson (Nutrition)

As a manager, here are a few things I do to hold myself accountable.

1) Keep organized:

I use my Outlook/Teams calendar for task and meeting reminders (Hint: if you have to snooze the task more than once, move it to another time/day. If there is a deadline, make it a priority and get it done)
I help the team by showing actual work, ways to do the work, scheduling time as well as how to keep it organized without a lot of “noise” that can distract us. “Noise” such as excessive folders and subfolders, files, duplication of information and how to avoid those pitfalls.

2) Be available:

I hold monthly one-on-one meetings with each Team member.
In addition to the formally scheduled time, I make sure I am regularly available to my team. They are encouraged to Teams message or call me anytime and I reply as promptly as possible.
I also meet with my manager weekly to debrief, for guidance, and partner with for the success of the business. I am just as responsible to be available to him as I am to my own team members.

3) Communicate clearly and effectively:

If I am going to be unavailable for a period of time, I message or email my team.
I also ask team members to use a shared calendar for planned absences as well as Teams group chats.
I’ve worked with the team on a consistent and organized system for clear and effective work instructions for cross training. This will enable them to help cover each other’s work when they are out or need additional help for those times when there is an increase in business. It is also great for training new folks! When a system is in place, you do not have to reinvent the wheel!

4) Own my part:

Do the people you work with know that you care about them? I express respect, care and concern for each person. Bottom line, no matter the position in the company we all matter and have value. It is of the utmost importance that people know you care about and believe in them.
If a team member is struggling with their role, I coach, guide, and answer questions to help them be successful. If they are not successful, we develop a plan together. A previous mentor of mine learned from one of his and taught me, if you have a person on your team struggling, you own that and have a responsibility to work with them.

5) Set goals:

I set goals and work with my team and/or manager to reach those goals. The goals are tied to the company strategy. I also work with each team member on setting their own goals.