Give your employees a chance to play...

Talented employees don't want to be told what to do. Rather they want to be asked for their opinions and given responsibility to achieve specific goals. With certain limits they want to make the decisions, develop a plan of action, and figure out what's necessary to move forward. The more autonomy you can extend knowledge workers to achieve their goals, the more willing they are to be involved and get results.

Too much direction and advice are insulting to today's knowledge workers. These employees have their own way of tackling projects and getting results. Knowledge workers don't want you to impose your way of doing things on them. They have a pattern and rhythm that works for them and they want to use it. Allow them to complete project in their own way as long as accomplishes the objective and doesn't interfere with other employees or processes.

Nothing annoys an employee more than being overlooked or ignored in areas where they have expertise. They are insulted when you do not consult them on decisions in areas they can offer expert advice-even if it falls outside the strict parameters of their job. The developer wants to be included when her prototype is being reviewed while a project manager wants to have a say in how his project is modified and changed. Take time to involve employees in key decisions and welcome their input.

Capable employees don't like getting mired in turf issues and destructive interpersonal dynamics. Many are not adept at handling conflicts and political infighting-they see it as a petty distraction to the work that needs to get done. Thus, they prefer to work around, ignore, and avoid dealing with conflicts and difficult personalities impeding progress. Yet sometimes the problems caused by these disruptions are too great to ignore. Knowledge workers need your help confronting difficult issues and addressing them. As a leader of knowledge workers, you must get involved, help them confront tough issues and make sure problems are resolved.

Talented employees want to contribute and make a difference. They relish learning, collaborating with colleagues and stretching their minds and abilities. As their manager you can help them succeed. When they win - you win.