The term "accountability" often comes with a negative vibe, making people think it’s about catching employees doing something wrong or exposing colleagues not pulling their weight. But really, accountability is about much more than that. It helps employees take ownership, boosting both productivity and morale in your organization. So, let’s explore how you can encourage accountability in your team.
Why is accountability so crucial in the workplace? Well, it helps create a productive and effective culture. When there’s a lack of accountability, it might start with an employee not keeping their commitments, which can irritate the whole team. It can also occur when bad behaviors become the norm, harming the organization. Here’s why you should focus on improving accountability in your company.
Setting clear expectations is key. Usually, accountability issues aren’t intentional; they’re often due to unclear roles and responsibilities. Research shows that only 47% of employees clearly understand what’s expected of them. Knowing your responsibilities is a big part of being productive. Without it, employees can become confused and unhappy at work.
If your business doesn’t have clear expectations, accountability suffers. Ambiguous priorities can lead to confusion, task frustration, and strained work relationships, which can cause distrust. A sense of ownership can save both time and resources for you and your employees.
Boosting employee morale is another benefit. When you recognize and reward employees who show accountability, it motivates others to take ownership of their actions too. It can even reignite the passion of less motivated staff, which, if ignored, can lead to bigger problems. Businesses globally lose around $500 billion annually due to disengaged employees. Creating a culture of accountability makes employees more satisfied, happy, and productive.
Accountability helps meet organizational goals by driving determination and commitment. When employees feel responsible, they’re more likely to work with integrity, helping your organization achieve its goals faster and reducing noncompliance risks.
So, how do you build a culture of accountability?
Start by leading by example. Reflect on whether you’re practicing what you preach. Are you fulfilling your responsibilities, owning up to decisions, and facing challenges directly? Respecting others’ time by arriving promptly at meetings is also a sign. As a business leader, when you own your mistakes and decisions, your team will follow suit.
Use an accountability framework like the RACI matrix, which clarifies roles and responsibilities and promotes task ownership. It breaks down into four parts: who’s responsible, who makes the final call, who should be consulted, and who should be informed about project progress.
Geo-tracking can be helpful in industries with field workers by monitoring their locations and activities. It ensures adherence to schedules and boosts productivity, letting employees know they’re being observed.
Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) by setting measurable objectives. Create specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals that guide your team’s success. These help employees understand what they need to achieve and how to improve their performance.
Building authentic relationships is important too. About 66% of people in a study reported weak connections with their coworkers. As a leader, connect with your employees—know what makes them tick, their interests, and their challenges. Offer emotional support when needed, making them feel valued and part of a safe space at work, which can increase engagement and accountability.
Champion fair treatment by prioritizing equal treatment. When your staff is treated fairly, they’re more likely to practice honesty. Encourage anonymous feedback from employees about any perceived favoritism or privilege in the workplace. Respecting diversity and inclusion is a vital part of equity, ensuring everyone feels welcome and supported.
Promoting a culture of accountability leads to improvements across your organization. It boosts morale, enhances autonomy, and fosters a sense of ownership that your team needs to thrive.
