If you read my latest Sandbox article, you will know that I have had experiences that keep me humble when it comes to my leadership performance.
Like most challenges and failures, they teach us something important, that we might not have learned had we not encountered and went through them. The gift that I received from my first failure was a keen desire to lead better the next time.
My first experience at leading people was not the only time that I came up short. Every article I write and LinkedIn message I post was inspired by real life, my leadership journey. I have also learned from the mistakes of others by watching and reflecting, yet the most memorable learnings come from my actions, or lack of action.
Case in point. Today’s post on LinkedIn, in the series I call “Leadin’ ain’t”, is a series of steps or considerations for leaders who default to telling their Team what to do. I don’t consider myself a controlling type, yet I have a vivid memory of doing what I know doesn’t work. Giving detailed one-way directions does not build trust. And yet, there was a time that I did exactly that and it blew up in my face. I deserved it!
Have a look at the carousel I posted on LinkedIn and leave your comments, or DM me if you want to include a longer story. 😊
If you don’t have LinkedIn open in a tab, here is the Coles notes version of Givin’ Orders Ain’t Leadin’, instead:
- Paint a picture of the future.
- Ask Team Members for their understanding of the goal.
- Describe benefits of achieving the goal.
- Clarify the available resources, limitations, and options they have at their disposal.
- Ask Team Members what they need to accomplish the goal.
- Ask Team Members when they will get the goal accomplished.
- Celebrate the milestones and achievement of goal.
At the Nelson Team we have amalgamated the work of researchers, leadership experts and our own experiences into a program for aspiring and developing leaders. The program has participants look deeply into their own beliefs and mindset first. We follow on with the communication and leadership skills that build trust and productive relationships.
If you want to benefit from this program, let’s talk.
If you think now is not the right time, ask yourself, when is the right time? Book a time