A simple way to understand what makes your team feel valued is to ask them. For some people, it’s getting more responsibility or more challenging projects. For another, showing that you value them would be thanking them in-person at your next one on one.

At your next one-on-one, try asking, “Did I do something that made you feel valued this week?”

The opposite question can help you identify moments when you may be diminishing your team’s sense of being valued. By asking, “Did I do anything that made you feel less valued this week?” will help surface areas where you might not be as supportive as you think you are being.

Caring to ask about where you’re failing your team helps build trust and creates a safe space for people to surface their thoughts, ideas, and feelings.