Leadership - The Power of Crystal-Clear Expectations in Leadership
My personal leadership style revolves around clarity and setting clear expectations for my team. I firmly believe that effective communication is huge. When I assign tasks or projects, I make it a point to clearly articulate what needs to be accomplished, how it should be done, and the timeframe for completion. This ensures that everyone is aligned and understands their roles, minimizing misunderstandings and maximizing productivity.
I've never been a fan of "tests" to gauge performance. Giving someone unclear guidelines on something that is important to you and the business is frankly a waste of time. I think “testing” whether or not someone can read your mind is manipulative and unproductive. Instead, I believe in delivering direct feedback when expectations aren't met. It's crucial to address issues promptly and use feedback as a teaching opportunity to facilitate growth and improvement.
I also believe that leadership isn't just about giving orders – it's about self-reflection and accountability. As a leader, I constantly evaluate my communication methods, ensure everyone understands their responsibilities, and maintain open lines of communication. This approach not only sets a positive example for my team but also fosters a culture of clarity, accountability, and success.
Here’s how I like to make sure I am setting clear expectations:
Be Explicit and Detailed: When assigning tasks or projects to your team, be explicit and detailed about what you expect. Clearly outline the task, how you want it to be accomplished, the skills required, and the deadline for completion. This eliminates any ambiguity and gives your team a clear roadmap to follow.
Provide Examples and Resources: Sometimes, words alone may not suffice. Providing examples, templates, or resources can further clarify your expectations and provide guidance to your team members. This ensures everyone is on the same page and understands the desired outcome.
Establish Open Communication Channels: Encourage open communication within your team. Make it clear that team members can approach you with questions, concerns, or clarifications before issues arise. This proactive approach fosters a culture of transparency and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings.
Offer Constructive Feedback: Feedback is essential for growth and improvement. When expectations are not met, provide constructive feedback promptly. Be specific about what fell short of expectations and offer guidance on how to improve. Use these instances as teaching moments to empower your team members.
Reflect and Adjust: As a leader, it's crucial to regularly reflect on your own communication and leadership style. Ask yourself if you're effectively communicating expectations, if there are any recurring issues, and how you can better support your team. Be open to adjusting your approach based on feedback and insights gained from reflection.
Remember, effective leadership starts with clear communication and a commitment to continuous improvement.
