The Power of The Morning Check-In

The Power of the Morning Check-In: A Simple Routine That Moves Mountains in Human Resources

By: Dr. Marco D. Holland, Chief Human Resources Officer, Marietta City Schools, Marietta, GA

Now, some may see the morning check-in as just another form of small talk or a brief pause in the busy grind of HR work. But, for me, it’s so much more than that. It’s a strategy. It’s an opportunity to foster connections, engage with my team and set the tone for a productive day. And it all started many years ago in the hallways of a 2,800-student school. Let me share a little story about how this humble routine has not only impacted my work, but also serves as a cornerstone of effective HR practices.

A PRINCIPAL’S MORNING WALK: SETTING THE STAGE FOR CONNECTION

When I was a principal, I adopted a morning checkin routine that involved literally walking the halls of my building—checking in on students, teachers and staff alike. It wasn’t just a ritual but part of my leadership strategy. I would circulate, tell a joke, offer a quick hello and, most importantly, listen.

The goal wasn’t just to get a read on the vibe of the building (though that was certainly important). It was about being present. Whether I was walking through the teacher’s lounge or stopping by the front office, I made it a point to engage in brief conversations—always keeping my ear to the ground for any issues that might need attention. I wanted my staff to know I was there for them and, in turn, they would feel comfortable coming to me with concerns or ideas. By the time the first bell rang, I had already walked about 7,000 steps and connected with nearly 70% of my team. And those early conversations always set the tone for a productive day.

Fast forward to today, where my office is much smaller, my team is more focused on HR policies and operations and my walks are considerably shorter. But the check-in remains. I still make it a priority to visit every person on my team every day. And just like when I was a principal, I’ve come to realize that those small interactions are integral to building a solid HR strategy.

WHY MORNING CHECK-INS MATTER IN HR: THREE KEY REASONS

1. Aligning HR Strategy: Thermometer vs. Thermostat: As HR professionals, we often find ourselves in the role of a “thermometer” in the workplace. We gauge the temperature, taking the pulse of the organization through feedback, surveys and other data points. But our true power lies in being a thermostat—someone who can use that data to create better conditions. The morning check-in is the perfect example of this. When I visit my team in the morning, I’m not just asking how they’re doing. I’m observing, listening and gathering information that will help me make adjustments where necessary. If there’s tension in the air or if there are unspoken concerns, these check-ins give me the chance to address them early. By engaging my team in a relaxed, informal setting, I can make quick decisions about how best to support them, whether that’s with resources, guidance or a listening ear. Just as a thermostat adjusts the temperature of a room, the morning check-in helps me adjust the dynamics of my team, fostering an environment where productivity and morale can thrive.
2. Employee Relations: The Power of Human Connection: One of the key tenets of Human Resources is employee relations. In HR, it’s crucial to build and maintain strong relationships with employees so they feel valued, heard and understood. That’s where the morning check-in becomes incredibly valuable. Human connection is at the core of effective employee relations. When I greet my team in the morning with a smile, a joke or a simple “good morning,” I’m not just checking in on their work performance—I’m acknowledging their humanity. This seemingly small act helps establish a sense of trust and belonging, which is crucial for building a cohesive and motivated team. As HR professionals, we spend a lot of time on formal interactions—meetings, reviews and strategic discussions. But it’s the informal, personal moments that create deeper connections and help cultivate a positive workplace culture. After all, it was Mary—one of my team members—who pointed out that the mornings I checked in with a smile and whistling or humming a song set the tone for the whole office (I can not sing!). She felt the warmth of my presence, and that energy trickled down to the rest of the team. When employees feel that their leaders are invested in them on a personal level, they’re more likely to engage, collaborate and contribute to the overall success of the organization.
3. Modeling Positive Behavior and Leadership: The morning check-in also serves as a model for leadership behavior. As an HR professional, I am in a unique position to set an example for my team. The way I conduct myself—how I communicate, how I approach challenges and how I interact with others—can have a profound impact on the workplace culture. By actively engaging with my team every morning, I’m modeling behaviors of openness, accessibility and emotional intelligence. I’m showing my team that I value communication and collaboration and that their wellbeing matters to me. This helps create a workplace where employees feel empowered to lead with the same enthusiasm and commitment. Furthermore, the morning check-in is an opportunity for me to practice and demonstrate what I expect from others. By taking the time to make these personal connections, I encourage my team to do the same with their colleagues and the people they serve. As HR professionals, we can’t expect our teams to embrace communication and connection if we’re not willing to lead by example.

REFLECTION: A SIMPLE HABIT WITH BIG IMPACT

The simple act of checking in with my team each morning may seem trivial, but as I’ve learned over the years, it’s a powerful strategy for creating positive, productive work environments. It’s not just about the walk or the casual conversation—it’s about fostering trust, building connections and being present for those who rely on us.

This morning, when I missed my check-in and Mary noticed my absence, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Not only had I failed to engage with my team, but I had also disrupted the energy that sets the tone for the day. Her reaction was a powerful reminder of the influence I have as a leader, and how a simple, consistent habit like the morning check-in can have a lasting impact on the workplace culture.

I encourage HR professionals and leaders in all fields to consider incorporating morning checkins into their routines. It doesn’t matter if you’re running a small team or leading an entire organization. Taking just a few minutes each morning to connect with your people can make a world of difference. So, why not get started today? Walk the halls or office space, say hello and let your team know you’re there for them. Who knows? You might just find that the most impactful HR strategy is the one that’s the most personal.

In the end, if you’re not whistling down the halls or spreading good vibes from the get-go, you might just be missing out on the opportunity to make a big impact with a small gesture. Get your steps in, your heart pumping and your team engaged—one check-in at a time. It is also an amazing way for you to feel even better about the work that you do to support others.

Let’s all get our morning routine right. After all, a little connection goes a long way! The jokester in me wants to say, “let’s get it percolating.”