This podcast explores the power of asking questions, reinforcing values and behaviors, assessing contribution and making necessary changes, reevaluating emotional attachment to organizational approaches, and the impact of asking the question 'What would a great leader do?'
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Quick takeaways
Asking the right questions shapes behavior and priorities of team members.
Leaders should invite diverse perspectives at decision-making tables to enable better decision-making and foster collaboration.
Identifying and addressing forced enthusiasm creates a positive work environment and prevents burnout.
Regularly questioning practices and embracing change prevents stagnation and propels organizations forward.
Deep dives
Asking the Right Questions
Leaders should prioritize asking questions as a way to learn and gain insights from others. The questions we ask communicate our values and what we deem important. By asking the right questions, leaders have the power to shape the behavior and priorities of their team members. Additionally, leaders should evaluate who needs to be present at decision-making tables and ensure that the right people are involved. It is important to constantly reassess where we make the greatest contribution to the organization and adjust our responsibilities accordingly. Furthermore, leaders should identify areas where energy is being manufactured, as it signifies a lack of genuine enthusiasm or passion. Lastly, leaders must be willing to confront the hard questions such as determining who is not keeping up and examining if we have fallen in love with outdated practices.
Choosing the Right People
Every leader needs to continually assess whether they have the right people at the decision-making table. It is crucial to consider the diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise required for effective decision-making. Leaders should go beyond the organizational chart and be willing to invite individuals from different hierarchies or departments who can contribute valuable insights. Creating a two-tiered system can allow for broader input, enable better decision-making, and foster a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.
Authenticity and Energy
Leaders should be mindful of areas where energy is manufactured or where excitement and enthusiasm are being forced. It is essential to identify and address moments when individuals are not genuinely excited about particular programs, products, or initiatives. By acknowledging and rectifying these situations, leaders can ensure that their teams are fully engaged and passionate about what they're working on. Recognizing the need for authentic enthusiasm helps maintain a positive work environment and prevents burnout.
Leveraging Contributions
Constantly evaluating where we make the greatest contribution within the organization is vital for personal and organizational growth. As leaders, we need to determine which tasks align best with our skills and interests. By tailoring our responsibilities, we can optimize our impact and create space for others to excel in areas where they have strengths. Additionally, fostering open communication with superiors about optimizing contributions and redistributing responsibilities can lead to a more efficient and effective workforce.
Difficult Conversations
It is crucial for leaders to address situations where individuals are struggling to keep up with the pace of organizational change. We must be willing to have difficult conversations about performance and make adjustments accordingly. Working hard to accommodate individuals who can't keep up can hinder overall progress and negatively impact team morale. Honoring both the individuals themselves and the organization's mission may require transitioning employees to different roles or even out of the organization.
Challenging Assumptions
Leaders should regularly question practices and approaches that the organization has become emotionally attached to. Just because something has been done a certain way for a long time doesn't mean it's still the best way. Assessing whether certain methods or systems are truly effective and aligned with the organization's goals helps prevent stagnation and creates room for improvement. By challenging assumptions and embracing change when necessary, leaders can propel their organizations forward.
Aspiring to Greatness
Leaders should frequently ask themselves what a great leader would do in any given situation. This exercise pushes us beyond average, compels us to consider selfless actions, and aligns our decisions with the best interests of the organization. Even if we don't always meet the standards of a great leader, the mere act of contemplating their actions can shift our mindset and motivate us to do better.
In 2012, I discussed why successful leaders always seek to understand the "why" behind the "what" and that it is essential for leaders to be learners. The only way to learn is to ask questions. There are six questions that are still relevant and important for organizations to ask today.
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