A conversation for action is what is required in order to execute on the strategy. It is the simplest, and yet, often the most difficult for teams to stay on point to address WHO, WHAT, BY-WHEN. It involves two things:

Requests and Promises

Service produces gratitude and appreciation from both the giver and receiver.  This is the unexpected outcome that has me want to give more.  I also feel it’s humbling to remember we are all connected and at some point in our lives, everyone needs a helping hand.I just saw a saying today that says something like “there’s a difference between talking to someone when you have the time and making the time to talk to someone”.

As a business coach, I sign a Coaching Agreement with each new client. After the client signs the agreement we have a contract. It’s more of a “handshake” than a real contract, but it’s a promise nonetheless. It’s a sacred thing, and one of the most important details on that paper is that as their coach, I agree to “listen actively for what’s important to them.”

The perceived lack of safety in an organization will certainly give you a calm, quiet work environment.

What it will not give you is a high performing team.

I’ve noticed that when I:

1. Let go of control

2. Allow others to figure it out

3. Give others a chance to speak up

4. And listen generously

…I am then BEING my best as a leader. It’s no longer about me, about my personality or leadership characteristics, my new focus is on those I care about impacting: our clients, our team, our family and friends.