Whose responsibility is that?
The leader knows whose responsibility it is. “Mine.”
Even when you delegate tasks and duties to others, the responsibility rests with the leader.
Some people argue with me on that point. They say that each of us should be responsible when we take on a task or obligation.
That’s right. We should each step up and lead when we take something on––and that means responsibility. However––the leader at the top is responsible for the whole shebang. Period.
Whose fault is it?
Once again: “Mine.”
Your effectiveness as a leader is only measured by the success––or failure of the people you serve. General Patton said it better than I could:
“A general officer who will invariably assume the responsibility for failure, whether he deserves it or not, and invariably give the credit for success to others, whether they deserve it or not, will achieve outstanding success.”
It’s my way or the highway.
It sickens me that managers actually still say this. But they do.
The most effective leaders are those who actively solicit input from others and are open to new ideas. The worst leaders are those who through ego, arrogance or insecurity refuse to open their ears, eyes, mind and heart to new possibilities.
It’s complicated…
Effective leaders simplify the complex and reduce the incomprehensible to clear, concise and understandable points that rally the troops.
When you hear a manager say “it’s complicated” it’s either because they don’t trust others––or they’re over their head.
I don’t care…
Then get the hell outta here. I mean it!
People perform at their best when––and only when––they know their leaders care.
If you can’t or won’t care––you don’t belong in a leadership position.
What have you heard a manager say that a leader never would? Add yours to the comments and be sure to offer something a genuine leader would say in its place!
We'll feature select responses in future posts: "MORE Things "the manager" Says…"
Photo by Icons8 team on Unsplash