With the current health crisis looming, the education sector changing, and all of us trying to figure out new ways to work, it can sometimes seem hard to stay positive. However, Rob Kramer from Inside Higher Ed offers some tactics on how to stay positive in the new year: 

Little gestures matter. Little ways of recognizing and supporting employees can go a long way. If you don’t know how to, simply ask! Listen and make sure you follow through. 

Professional development matters. In a time of tight budgets and even tighter deadlines, personal growth can take a backseat. Look for conferences or training that works within your budget, or look for mentors or similar roles at other schools that can provide peer support to your own team. 

Rewards matter. People do appreciate awards or rewards, and they don’t have to come in the form of extravagant bonuses or compensation. You could reward someone with extra leave or even a thoughtful gift card for a job well done. 

Dignity matters. Make sure even in the virtual environment, you are providing everything your team needs to be successful. Do they need a nicer chair? A better workspace? Sometimes asking what the employee needs can uncover some basic needs that can be met. 

Honesty matters. Leaders need to be transparent in their decisions and update their teams in a timely matter. Part of honesty is also being accountable when needed.  

These strategies may seem small compared to some of the challenges we are facing in 2021, but these small interactions with leaders and other team members can go a long way to brighten up the coming months.