Leadership Tips

Communicate the Game Plan

Have you ever seen a professional sports team that is able to play well and win without a game plan? Of course not!! A good coach and leader has a plan not only for each game, but also for the team’s development. That includes a plan for each individual on the team. And here is the key to having that game plan carried out successfully……the plan is communicated and understood by each team member. A plan that stays in your head may be a great plan but can not be implemented by anyone but yourself. So…… communicate, communicate, communicate and then check for understanding. I guarantee you will see positive results.

Paul “Bear” Bryant had 5 points that explain what he believed a good coach should do:

1. Tell the players what you expect of them.
2. Give players an opportunity to perform.
3. Let players know how they are getting along.
4. Instruct and empower players when they need it.
5. Reward players according to their contributions.

                                    John Maxwell “Developing the Leaders Around You”

"Leadership is more art than science. The principles of leadership are constant but the application changes with every leader and in every situation." by John Maxwell

To say "well done" to any bit of good work is to take
hold of the powers which have made the effort and
strengthen them beyond our knowledge.
-- Phillip Brooks

When was the last time you acknowledged one of your employees? When was the last time you acknowledged one of your peers? Or even your boss? And…when was the last time you were acknowledged by one of them? A little bit of attention to good work goes a long way. Most employees in America, 65%, say that they have not been complimented on their works within the last month. Since people generally like to do what they are good at, that speaks volumes about who we are as managers and leaders. People, including us, will continue to perform well at things they already do well. So, how do you teach, or learn, new behaviors? Acknowledgement!!! Make sure you are acknowledging what is going right for the people around you, direct reports, peers, boss and, yes, even yourself. Try it consistently with one person for two weeks and see if you notice a difference. It is contagious and I guarantee you will get results and it will be worth the time and money you put in to it.