Most leaders want better performance from their team.
But surprisingly few realise they already have a powerful tool to make it happen—and they’re using it every day, often without noticing.
That tool?
Attention.
Why Attention Is More Than Just Focus
Think of attention like a spotlight. Wherever you shine it, things grow.
Shine it on problems, and you’ll see more problems.
Shine it on productivity, and it multiplies.
In business, attention is your most valuable form of currency.
You spend it every time you:
- Call out poor performance
- Praise a team member
- Ignore someone who’s quietly getting the job done
And just like real currency, where you invest it matters.
The Three Kinds of Attention You’re Already Giving
Whether you’re leading a small team or an entire organisation, your attention naturally falls into three categories:
1. Positive Attention
This includes praise, recognition, support, or even a simple “well done.”
It builds confidence, loyalty, and performance.
2. Negative Attention
Corrective feedback, frustration, or criticism.
It’s sometimes necessary—but if it dominates, it can create fear or resentment.
3. No Attention
This is the most damaging of all.
It sends the message: You don’t matter. People who consistently receive no attention often disengage—and eventually, leave.
Why We Tend to Focus on the Wrong People
Most business owners and managers are problem solvers by nature.
It feels productive to coach the underperformer or fix the broken process. But here’s what often gets overlooked:
Your high performers—the ones holding everything together—are rarely the ones getting attention.
They’re quietly hitting targets, solving problems, and supporting others. And because they’re not loud about it, they often go unnoticed.
A Simple Attention Audit You Can Try This Week
Take a moment to reflect:
- Who’s getting most of your one-on-one time?
- Are you spending hours trying to fix the same issues with the same people?
- Who’s delivering results, and when was the last time you recognised them for it?
Now do this:
Give 10% more attention to the people who are already performing well.
Not a performance review or formal reward—just a genuine “I see what you’re doing, and it matters.”
Watch what happens.
The Leadership Shift That Changes Everything
When you start shifting your attention:
- From what’s broken → to what’s working
- From who’s struggling → to who’s succeeding
- From frustration → to admiration
You’ll start to see a cultural shift. People will feel seen. Your best team members will be energised. And your underperformers may rise simply because the standard has been reset.
Final Thought: Where Is Your Attention Going?
You don’t need more hours in the day to lead more effectively.
You just need to be more intentional about where you place your attention.
Because in the end:
You get more of what you pay attention to.
Want Help Doing an “Attention Audit”?
If you’d like to explore how this concept could apply to your team, we’re happy to walk you through a strategy call.
Schedule your free Hiring Demo and we’ll be ready to help.