OK, she didn’t exactly roar. However, the quiet helper who always slipped timidly into my house, vacuum cleaner in hand, behind her boss is no longer timid, quiet, or “not quite ready for prime time.” After her boss was sidelined by a serious car accident, “the mouse” walked in with confidence, assured me she would continue to serve me and that the sister in tow had experience, gave me her phone number, actively sought opportunities to go above and beyond, and engaged in relationship-building conversation, though not too much! 

The energy, pride, and competence unleashed are not just heart-warming. This mouse is now a much more valuable employee.

But it shouldn’t take a disaster to give employees a chance to roar.

You undoubtedly have employees who are plodding through the day, day after day, with little opportunity, inclination, or incentive to become bigger contributors. Yet, given a chance, a push, a vote of confidence, many are capable of far more. And if they grow, you, their co-workers, and the company all win.

So how do you help employees grow? How do you see if they can roar?

You give them a chance.

You talk to them about priorities and objectives and give them new responsibilities. You provide feedback and support, and a little time to grow into the new role. You give them permission to fail. Yes, there are some risks, but one mouse that roars is worth far more than two tip-toeing behind the boss.