Message of the Week 5 - 9 June 2023

Move beyond Empowerment to Autonomy

Research done last year concludes that giving staff the autonomy they want is not only good for business, but it can positively impact your corporate culture and workplace.

In today's ever-evolving workplace, it is easy to notice how our employees are seeking more than just flexibility in their schedules; they now desire autonomy and the freedom to shape how they work. It's no surprise that many individuals yearn for a work culture that embraces autonomy, where they have the power to make decisions about their tasks and execute them in their own way. But why should employers, give employees this level of autonomy? The answer lies in trust and recognising the unique strengths and working styles of our workforce. 

Granting autonomy is an acknowledgment that employees are capable of making informed decisions without constant micromanagement. By fostering autonomy, we create an environment where individuals can tailor their work and surroundings to achieve their best performance.

However, autonomy should not be misconstrued as a lack of rules or boundaries. We all operate within guidelines. Autonomy means understanding the parameters and having the freedom to excel within them. It empowers employees to unleash their creativity, innovation, and passion, leading to heightened productivity levels. When individuals feel stifled in their roles, it hampers their ability to speak up, with 34 percent of employees reporting that fear of negative consequences prevents them from expressing their opinions. 

Empowerment in the workplace is also often associated with the ability to make decisions and take action, but it is different to autonomy. Autonomy enables individuals to make informed decisions because they understand not just what needs to be done, but also why it needs to be done. The key lies in equipping staff with knowledge about the inner workings of the company and the reasons behind its processes. 

To foster autonomy, certain foundational elements are essential. First and foremost, trust must exist between top-level management and frontline employees. The sharing of knowledge and experiences should be encouraged without the fear of failure or reprisal. Standardised processes need to be established and formalised to safeguard valuable information and ensure consistency. 

Here are seven tips from a great list of 13 ways to move beyond empowerment towards autonomy:

1. Demonstrate your trust in your team members.
2. Communicate a clear vision to align everyone's efforts.
3. Engage in small talk to build rapport and foster connection.
4. Encourage self-improvement through continuous learning.
5. Keep your office door open to invite open dialogue and collaboration.
6. Support vacation time to promote work-life balance and rejuvenation.
7. Delegate more than just work; delegate responsibility and decision-making. 

By embracing autonomy and trust, we create a work environment where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential. It's a paradigm shift that benefits both employees and the organisation, leading to increased innovation, productivity, and overall success. 

Remember, trust the process, and empower your staff to soar!

Paul Wendlandt - General Manager - KYOCERA Document Solutions South Africa