Work conversations often focus so much on mistakes and stress that successes and pleasures go unnoticed. By making a point of inquiring about these positives, you'll encourage good workers to become even more conscious of ways to get satisfaction from their work. And by listening carefully and praising them for their skill and good judgment, you can assure them that their quality work habits aren't going unnoticed. This sort of attention, sincerely given, will reinforce the behavior that led to their success. Follow up a discussion of good work by asking how employees think they could make even more use of their talents.
People tend to focus on overcoming their weaknesses.
By paying attention to employees' strengths, you can inspire them to think of ways they can grow in their jobs and contribute more to the team's success. But if you do see interest, look into opportunities to help workers develop their untapped skills. After making it plain that you're very happy with the result, ask a successful employee if there are any changes or refinements he'd make if he could. Showing genuine interest in the practical application of their ideas shows you take the employees' opinions seriously, and it encourages them to keep thinking creatively. In addition, you'll get the benefits of implementing some top-notch ideas.