8: Accountability series - Ask for that commitment!
Jun 24, 2019
auto_awesome
Exploring accountability in leadership, the podcast emphasizes the role of clear negotiation and skilful asking. It discusses the importance of direct requests over hints, building trust through clear communication, and avoiding breakdowns in accountability.
Skilful asking and clear negotiation of commitments increase likelihood of delivery.
Making clear requests and obtaining commitments build trust and foster accountability.
Deep dives
The importance of asking in holding others accountable
In this episode, the podcast explores the role of the asker in holding others accountable. Many people struggle with the act of asking for what they want, often due to deep-seated beliefs about what is considered acceptable behavior. The podcast emphasizes the power of making a clear request and engaging in a conversation with the other person about their ability and willingness to fulfill that request. By having a direct conversation and obtaining a commitment, trust is built, and the person feels honored and motivated to keep their word. The podcast highlights the significance of making and keeping requests to build trust and foster accountability. It encourages listeners to overcome their hesitation around asking and adopt the skill of making clear requests.
Different approaches to asking and their consequences
The podcast discusses two main approaches to asking: telling and hinting. While some people resort to simply telling others what they want without engaging in a conversation, others rely on subtle hints in the hope that the other person will understand and take action. However, both approaches come with drawbacks. Telling can lead to a lack of true commitment from the other person, while hinting often results in misaligned expectations. The podcast stresses the importance of making clear requests that explicitly state what needs to be done, by when, and clarifying expectations to prevent breakdowns in accountability.
The role of the asker in building trust and overcoming doubt
The podcast highlights the role of the asker in building trust and overcoming doubt. It emphasizes that asking is not a sign of weakness but an opportunity for open and meaningful conversations. By asking for commitments and understanding any doubts or risks, the asker gains valuable insights into what it will take for the other person to keep their word. This approach allows for problem-solving and the involvement of the team in taking mutual responsibility. The podcast encourages listeners to practice asking the right person, being specific in their requests, and persisting even if the first attempts are unsuccessful, as the skill of asking well is the foundation of true accountability.
If in every accountability ‘contract’ there is an asker and a giver, it is the role of the asker that is often underrated and under-emphasised. Skilful asking, clear negotiation of commitments, and active engagement at the start, dramatically increases the likelihood that what is expected is delivered at the end. This episode describes the role and responsibilities of a skilful asker, the person who is hoping that others will deliver to them what they want. Turn a hope into a near certain expectation through the techniques covered in this episode.