Monday, June 24, 2013

Do Some Research

One of the biggest mistakes in leadership training is exhorting a list of rules for managers and expecting them to execute successfully.  There is a world of difference between knowing what to do and actually being able to do it.  Before you assume that you have the knowledge and skills it takes to implement  rules like Google's -- check.


First, do not assume you know everything you need to know.   Start with research on how to successfully execute the behavior you want to use.  You can consult your HR manager, attend a class, or read books and on-line resources.  What are the techniques?  What skills does it take?  How do you know if you are doing it correctly?   Start your learning with a thorough and detailed understanding of what it takes to do something well.
  
Second, you need to know your current skill level on that specific behavior.   Just like a recipe doesn't make you a great cook, the knowledge you get from your research will not guarantee your ability to use the skill in real situations.   Ask for feedback from people who have had a chance to observe you using the skill, do a role play and ask for a critique of your performance, and check sources of data like 360 or climate surveys.   You will be most successful if you start with an accurate assessment of your skill level, not just a guess.

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