Team success is always dependent on people working together to achieve a common goal. However, coaching and supervising people is often a tricky proposition for the leader of a team. If these leaders allow their people go off on their own, they might find themselves in a sticky situation where things blow up in their face. If they hold on to the reins too tightly, their subordinates might balk at the confinement. Feeling hampered or handcuffed they may decide that leaving the company is the best option. How should a leader prime his subordinates for success?
Go Beyond Empowerment
Delegating power or responsibility to subordinates has always been identified as a quick fire solution; a proven remedy to enable people to deliver short-term results. However, it is no longer the case. Experts in the field now agree that what is needed goes beyond empowerment. In the book, JUST SHOW UP, there is a chapter about enobling vs. enabling. People must feel invested in the business. To do so, a leader must develop a sense of pride in all team members and confidence in the leadership. Also, people respond best when they see that their values align with those of the organization. In short, their character and the way they perform should dove tail that of the team. Then and only then will people develop a burning desire to excel. It becomes a “we” thing rather than an “I” thing and they look past individual performance and strive to contribute to the development of each member of the team.
Know the Rules – Stick to the Rules – Be Ready to adjust
Rules are put in place to protect the company and preserve order. However, there are times when when the rules appear to stand in the way of instilling pride, developing character, and ramping up the desire to excel ie., everyone must be treated the same. A good leader must understand that there are times where it is appropriate to make adjustments, especially when a quick decision is necessary. As long as the leader has earned the authority to make decisions and the support of his/her superiors, an exception/adjustment to the rule can be made.
Francis A Castelli 