Over at "The Performance & Talent Management Blog" I came across an interesting question: "Is self-awareness a competency?" and I think that a managers self-awareness is not only a competency but also an asset.

As a small business owner or manager you do not operate your business in a void and in fact are quite dependent on your staff. Plus they rely on you and are influenced by you. Your ability to positively impact others influences their mood, drive, and performance.

David Creelman ay the Human Capital Institute states that "Awareness is about being aware of your style and being aware of the consequences of your behavior - seeing the impact you are having on people."

How can you tell whether you are having a positive or negative impact?

David closes his article by stating: "Observe your impact on other people. If you are in a meeting, what happens after you talk? Do they ignore it? Do they get inspired and energized? Are they rolling their eyes and looking the other way?"

Obviously, if people are not energized, are rolling their eyes, or seem distant you are not connecting with them and your ability to manage and lead will be impaired.

I suggest that unless you are self-aware and, more importantly, paying attention to your impact on others, you will not be able to gain the emotional buy-in from your employees.

Without emotional buy-in, you get compliance but not performance. Even if you are good at team building, pay close attention to detail, and are a conceptual thinker - it will all be for not because your employees experience a disconnect with you and your agenda.

To Remedy adjust your personal style by striving to connect with and engage your employees by practicing active listening.