Leadership Tune Up - Part Five

No Fear of Repercussions for  Mistakes.  

Every creative or innovative change carries with it risk that it won’t work, and if it doesn’t work, our fear is that our action will be viewed as folly.  Embarrassment is a valid concern for people.  When that embarrassment comes as a result of making an honest mistake, the manager’s actions are viewed as horribly dishonest.   People learn best by doing and making mistakes.   If people are concerned about potential embarrassment, they will rely on their manager to make all of the decisions.  Customer responsive organizations are never effective when everyone has become dependent upon the time and judgment of a few managers.   Innovation stops, risk-taking stops, and the status quo rules.   Never reprimand or make even well intentioned criticisms about the performance of anyone in public.  This must always be done in private even when the issue may seem insignificant.