This is not a new concept….but it’s an important reminder.
It’s far too easy for us #leaders to neglect this in our daily administration. Why?
When I took over as the director of revenue, a manager from one of my departments came to me asking about some changes I was making. In essence, his statement was: “I don’t want to look bad, if the COO doesn’t like what we are doing now.”
I responded by telling him that the changes were mine, not his. That I had been in conversation with the COO, BUT that, in the event that there were questions, he could ALWAYS say, “This is the directive that Jon has given us.” It was my responsibility to take, and I would have no problem taking ownership of the changes I was making. And, if I was in the wrong, I would bear 100% of the blame.
But, it is not always that easy. There is an unspoken expectation of those in #leadership that they should know what they are doing. While this is reasonable (after all, no one wants an incompetent leader), it comes with a great deal of pressure.
Leaders who might be inclined to honestly admit that they do not know something may be fearful that there is another who DOES know and who is ready to try to take their position.
Leaders who might be willing to admit fault may feel as if it will be used against them at an inopportune time.
Leaders who would love to apologize may have been told that, if they do, it could be referenced and used against them or the organization in a future court case.
Leaders who might be inclined to honestly admit that they do not know something may be fearful that there is another who DOES know and who is ready to try to take their position.
Leaders who might be willing to admit fault may feel as if it will be used against them at an inopportune time.
Leaders who would love to apologize may have been told that, if they do, it could be referenced and used against them or the organization in a future court case.
So, on the one hand, we have leaders who may be #humble and the embodiment of #servantleadership, but who are scared of what will happen if they are.
On the other hand, there are those who are jealous of their position and don’t feel like they can afford to admit wrong for fear that someone will use it against them.
In both cases, we need the reminder that our calling is to be #authentic leaders. If we cannot admit wrong and apologize, then how can we expect our team to take ownership and responsibility? If we are more interested in protecting our position than making a dynamic difference, then what else will our team be inclined to do? And, while there are certainly legal considerations that must often be made, if we are not willing to admit fault, then what more can we expect from those who are watching us to determine what it means to lead well.
I am by no means perfect in this. But I try to take responsibility before anyone else can blame me. I work diligently to ensure that I take #ownership of the challenges and defer credit for the victories. I invite you to join me on this journey! We may not be perfect, but let’s try to be great examples for others and for our teams!