Acknowledging Emotions Improves Team Performance

Employees often experience a range of emotions such as anger or frustration at work, but many supervisors avoid acknowledging these feelings, believing it to be unprofessional. Research indicates that teams perform better when leaders validate their team members' emotions, making it crucial for managers to engage with their emotions. Implementing a mental checklist can help leaders determine how to respond effectively, as understanding whether an employee is coping or facing a time-sensitive deadline informs the appropriate approach. Developing the skill to recognize and address emotions in the workplace fosters a more connected and productive working environment.