fashano

In most instances, our society tends to use the term accountability to determine who we punish when something has gone wrong. As leaders who are growing are people who, in turn grow our organizations, let's try a different approach to accountability. Let's "front-load" accountability. Here is what I mean. When you front-load accountability, you include specificity in your commitment. We don't simply say, "I expect you to do a good job." When we front-load, we clarify precisely what we want to be done, what success looks like, and why this is important. There is no ambiguity to the expectation. In an accountability culture, people take ownership of what is expected of them. They feel responsible for their team members and [...]

Research has proven that most people with mentors stay. Mentoring has become a way to transfer critical skills and knowledge, inspiring loyalty, improved engagement, buy-in, and increased productivity. If the plan is to build a more inclusive organization, mentoring is a powerful approach. I see more mentoring in my consulting and coaching work; and I stress it wherever possible. Results are the proof. The more direct reports who are mentored, the more engaged they become, and the less likely they will think about leaving. The simple truth is mentoring can be done without specific training or much time. In many cases, leaders mentor naturally without even realizing it. When you engage in mentoring, try these practices: Walk your talk: model what is [...]

There are many things great leaders do that differentiate them. I have identified 10. Over the next two weeks, I will share them with you. Great leaders care but never compromise.  As leaders, we must care about our people. We must continually seek to understand them. We must point them in the right direction to the resources that will help them. There is a fine line between care and candor. There are times when we need to call them out, hold them to a higher standard, and never compromise our culture and values. Great leaders inspire, not try to motivate.  I have learned I can’t motivate someone to perform. I thought I could. Motivation comes from within. Our role as [...]