How to Set Expectations in the Workplace

According to our trusted old friend Merriam Webster, to expect something is “to consider [something] reasonable, due, or necessary.” Setting clear expectations for your employees is crucial. In the workplace context, expectations define how you want employees to perform and relate to others.

Expectations are vital since they provide clarity, insight, and direction to everyone in the company. Expectations unify your team as you work toward the same end. Additionally, providing employees with clearly written expectations provides you with reasonable grounds for termination if those expectations remain unmet.

So, what kind of expectations exist in the workplace?

Expectations of Employees

• Positivity and respect
• Honesty and integrity
• Professionalism
• Consistent, on-time attendance
• Safety compliance
• Adherence to policies and procedures
• A high level of performance overall.

In addition, performance expectations are associated with each employee’s role. These individualized, task-driven assumptions are closely tied to the employee’s job description.

Expectations of Each Team

• Sensitivity and courtesy.
• Job assignment flexibility.
• Being a team player.
• Dependability.
• Willingness to assist.
• Openness to constructive feedback.
• Ability to ask for help and seek advice.
• Collaborative ability.

Expectations of the Employer

• Training.
• Support.
• Effective leadership.
• Feedback and performance reviews.
• Physically and psychologically safe work environments.
• Thorough disclosure of job responsibilities.
• Fair and timely wages.

Workplace dynamics rarely allow employees to demand expectations from their employers in the same way that employers elicit their expectations from their employees. However, employees do have expectations of their employers. Some employee-requested expectations are also backed by federal law. So, it’s essential to be aware, do your best to meet professional expectations, and empower your employees to do their jobs well.

How to Set Expectations

As an employer, you must provide clear and attainable expectations for your employees. Here are some tips for clarifying what you want:

Define Your Expectations

The first person you must converse with is yourself. Determine what expectations are important to you, align with your vision, and are realistic.

Communicate Clearly

Clarity is imperative. Specificity is crucial. Frequency is essential. Where performance expectations are concerned, provide employees with documentation—via employee handbooks or new hire contracts. Discuss openly with employees, keeping the channels open for questions and feedback. Review expectations often!

Use Metrics

Keep performance expectations (things like production quotas, telemarketing calls, etc.) tightly tethered to metrics and measurable data. While expectations like dependability, integrity, and positivity are a tad more ambiguous, you simply cannot afford ambiguity when it comes to performance expectations. Straightforward expectations not only provide clarity but also establish a structure for monitoring employee performance.

Tie Expectations to Company Vision

Expectations should exceed metrics. Measurable standards and benchmarks give employees the structure they need, but understanding the importance of their role is paramount. Expectations contribute to company success and add significance to their work. Communicate the why behind every expectation and connect it to the day-to-day expectations your employees strive toward.

Obtain an Agreement or Commitment 

Ensure that employees understand and agree to your expectations. Require employees to sign a copy of the expectations, lending gravity to the situation and holding them accountable.

At Career Concepts, we believe in strong teams! That’s why we’ve spent the last 50 years matching the best talent to the optimal opportunities for career growth. If you’re looking for the next step in your career, contact us today and let’s get started.