Expectations can lead to disappointment… But that’s no excuse to avoid them! 

Ducking out of setting expectations because you fear being seen as a tyrant or dread disappointment is a cop-out. And if you have the viewpoint that “no one cares about expectations anymore,” then you need to do some serious soul searching. 

If you’re serious about leading your credit union to success, you must set expectations. It is non-negotiable. Expectations drive performance and establish clear standards. The challenge, however, is in how you set expectations, and understanding what unmet expectations actually are. Expectations should be dynamic, not static and forgotten. When setting them, it’s vital to avoid absolutes, like “never” or “always,” and to maintain a strong connection to your team.

But before setting your expectations, ask yourself how you expect to feel when they are met. Understanding how you expect to feel when expectations are met clarifies your motivation and ensures they align with your goals. It helps ensure you set realistic expectations and avoid overcommitment. This reflection enhances self-awareness and empathy, guiding actionable steps toward fulfillment. It also improves overall satisfaction and well-being by focusing on what truly matters to you. 

Of course, unmet expectations hurt. They scream that something isn’t working. Use disappointment as a wake-up call. It’s not a failure—it’s a sign to switch gears and innovate. Dig deep to uncover the root causes and unmet needs behind the disappointment. This is where real growth and innovation happen. Push your team – and yourself – toward greatness. Anticipating the emotional outcome fosters resilience and adaptability if expectations are not met. Ultimately, it ensures that your efforts lead to genuine satisfaction and personal growth.

When disappointment strikes, control your reactions. Don’t dump your emotional baggage onto your team. Ensure your expectations are built on mutual respect. Shallow relationships can’t support deep expectations. Embrace disappointment as a badge of courage and a steppingstone to growth.

Actionable Strategies for Credit Union Leaders

• Set clear, achievable goals.
• Make sure your expectations are realistic and attainable.
• Provide consistent feedback and support to keep your team aligned and motivated.
• Address your own issues before demanding your team meet your standards.
• Foster an environment where team members feel valued and understood.

Setting expectations is essential for leadership, but true leadership is about learning and growing when expectations are not met. Embrace disappointment as a catalyst for adaptation and growth. By doing so, you’ll not only elevate your team but also drive your credit union to unprecedented heights. 

Lead with authority, adapt with agility, and watch your team soar.

If you’re looking to set and achieve goals that enhance your credit union culture and improve team dynamics, YMC is here to help. We can develop targeted strategies and implement effective practices that will transform your workplace into a thriving environment where your culture and teams excel.

As Vice President of Brand Experience for Your Marketing Co., Frank Allgood works with credit unions to develop strong leaders, create effective training programs, and build powerful brands. Want to connect? Call 864.326.8740 or email [email protected].