Common questions about the Reinforcing Expectations Guide

1. Do I need this if I already have a Workplace Expectations Guide?

We recommend it.

The Workplace Expectations Guide defines expectations for your workplace.

The Reinforcing Expectations Guide gives leaders a practical framework for reinforcing workplace expectations when they aren’t being met.

2. Why do expectations need reinforcing?

Defining expectations is only the first step.

For expectations to shape how a team actually works, leaders need to refer back to them regularly – in conversations, feedback and everyday situations.

Over time, this helps embed expectations into the team’s everyday behaviour.

3. Is this only relevant for larger teams?

Not at all.

Even in smaller teams, expectations need to be reinforced consistently so everyone applies them in the same way.

The Reinforcing Expectations Guide helps leaders refer back to expectations in everyday situations so expectations remain clear and understood across the team.

4. When would leaders typically use this guide?

This guide gives leaders a simple way to refer back to expectations in everyday situations, including when:

• giving feedback or addressing behaviour
• reinforcing workplace standards
• discussing performance or accountability
• working through team challenges

5. Do we need the Workplace Expectations Guide first?

Yes.

The Workplace Expectations Guide defines the expectations for your workplace — how people communicate, behave and work together.

The Reinforcing Expectations Guide then gives leaders a practical framework for reinforcing those expectations when they aren’t being met.

Together, the two guides help turn expectations into everyday behaviour across the team.