Micromanaging is a classic leadership mistake. You were hired to manage the team because you were an excellent individual performer. And now you want everyone to perform at the same high level. So you are constantly looking over their shoulders. You don’t want to micromanage, but you need to know what is going on – and that things are being done properly. What do you … [Read more...] about Manage Without Micromanaging
implementation
Stop Multi-Tasking, Start Timeboxing
We all want to make better use of our time – and here is a great way to do it: Timeboxing. First, I will admit that I am a Recovering Multi-Tasker. I know that I should close all of my apps, notifications, and windows to focus on only one thing at a time, but I backslide. If you want to learn how and why to kick the multi-tasking habit, check out this blog. The next … [Read more...] about Stop Multi-Tasking, Start Timeboxing
Accountability: You, Then Your Team
The best strategy in the world will not work without effective implementation. One of the biggest mistakes I see in implementation is a lack of Accountability. Accountability is one of the five pillars of teamwork excellence, according to Patrick Lencioni – in his book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team – and I could not agree more. Accountability begins with you – the … [Read more...] about Accountability: You, Then Your Team
Get Rid of the BS
Less is often more. Most of us know this. Yet, most leaders end up “adding” more things to do for their organizations, rather than getting rid of things. Research shows we are “wired” this way. When humans are asked to think of ways to improve things, we fall into “addition bias.” We can be much more effective if can focus some of our time on a “stop doing” list. A … [Read more...] about Get Rid of the BS
Say “No” to False Urgency
Some people and organizations are addicted to “urgency” – it gives them a rush. It can be intoxicating indeed – “Hey everyone, the boss needs us in the conference room ASAP for an emergency meeting!” And there you have heated discussions why someone just complained about the color you used on a recent advertising flyer – and what to do about it. Give me a … [Read more...] about Say “No” to False Urgency