If I could figure out how to create a pill for employees to take that caused them to demonstrate Ownership at work, I could make a fortune. Over and over again, I hear Executives and Business Owners ask me how to instill Ownership in their workers. Luckily I have an answer…but one that many leaders choose not to embrace.
1. Clearly communicate what you expect the person to do
2. Follow up with them on a consistent basis
3. Offer specific feedback as to what they are doing well and what needs to change
4. If they don’t perform up to the expectations, either help them change or change them
A simpler answer is: Hold them accountable
That’s it. Nothing more. But why is it lacking in today’s workplace? Because too many bosses have gone soft. They think it’s all about empowering their people. Letting them make their own decisions. Encouraging individuality. And, all of that is great. But, before one puts these practices in place there must be rules and standards that apply.
Everyone needs to know what is expected of them first. Then, they can find ways to accomplish their goals to the best of their ability. Since each person is different, methods to achieve top performance will vary. Some will achieve great things on their own with minimal guidance. Others need specific direction, step by step instructions that outline how to go from point A to point B.
Whatever method one uses to get “the job done”, it MUST be monitored, inspected and feedback given...good and bad. And, this is where the leader goes soft. They are uncomfortable holding people accountable. They find it difficult to deliver negative comments and simply forget to offer praise.
Want your staff to take Ownership? Try doing it yourself first. Hold yourself accountable for their success. When you do this…you take responsibility for leading them to greatness. Then, the good ones will follow you and you will change out the others.
Use my 4 step process, hold yourself Accountable, and you will create an Ownership Culture others will envy.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Truth, Trust and the Work Place
I had the opportunity to speak at Broward College this past Friday about Emotional Intelligence. On Saturday I addressed the College of Pharmacy Students at Nova Southeastern University on Trust. As I reflect back on both presentations, I was reminded of one of the principles in my book: The Pied Piper Principle; Lead, and They Will Follow:
Principle #45: Tell the truth
”A lesson we are taught from young: “Don’t lie or you will get into more trouble” or “I won’t get mad if you tell me the truth.” So, you work hard as a youngster to do as you are told and avoid lying. Then someone comes along and explains “the little white lie” and you now begin to operate with the new rules. You face a decision that requires falsifying information and you do it confidently, knowing that if you try real hard you will be able to fit it in under the “white lie” clause.
Then you learn the lesson of exaggeration. You are coached to “expand” your resume, “manipulate” the data and provide information on a “need to know” basis. And, all of a sudden the mere thought of telling the truth becomes foreign. It is strange to even consider. You enter negotiations knowing that everyone arrives in their dishonesty suit. It is acceptable to “fudge” the numbers, leave out certain facts in order to close the deal.
With all of this education on lying, it is hard to break the cycle. Unless – of course – you have integrity. You choose to do it different. You are even willing to announce to others that you don’t do it that way. You prefer the truth. It is simpler. There is no need to cover things up. They are what they are. Take it or leave it. Think of the consequences others eventually pay when lying. One guarantee of telling the truth, you will sleep easier at night.”
The more we hear of broken promises, fraud, and deceit, the greater the call of each of us to lead our lives with truth. Join with me in being a leader others want to follow by staying true to our word today, this week and on.
Principle #45: Tell the truth
”A lesson we are taught from young: “Don’t lie or you will get into more trouble” or “I won’t get mad if you tell me the truth.” So, you work hard as a youngster to do as you are told and avoid lying. Then someone comes along and explains “the little white lie” and you now begin to operate with the new rules. You face a decision that requires falsifying information and you do it confidently, knowing that if you try real hard you will be able to fit it in under the “white lie” clause.
Then you learn the lesson of exaggeration. You are coached to “expand” your resume, “manipulate” the data and provide information on a “need to know” basis. And, all of a sudden the mere thought of telling the truth becomes foreign. It is strange to even consider. You enter negotiations knowing that everyone arrives in their dishonesty suit. It is acceptable to “fudge” the numbers, leave out certain facts in order to close the deal.
With all of this education on lying, it is hard to break the cycle. Unless – of course – you have integrity. You choose to do it different. You are even willing to announce to others that you don’t do it that way. You prefer the truth. It is simpler. There is no need to cover things up. They are what they are. Take it or leave it. Think of the consequences others eventually pay when lying. One guarantee of telling the truth, you will sleep easier at night.”
The more we hear of broken promises, fraud, and deceit, the greater the call of each of us to lead our lives with truth. Join with me in being a leader others want to follow by staying true to our word today, this week and on.
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