In working with senior leaders in organizations of all sizes, a common theme emerges. I sometimes call it the “shared frustration paradox.” Managers lament the fact that they don’t have the level of authority that they need to execute the responsibilities of their job. Senior leaders complain that their direct reports lack initiative and bring to their attention problems, obstacles, and challenges without proposing possible solutions. What’s going on here?
There is a two-fold opportunity here that is often overlooked by leaders. At one level, leaders can free themselves from the seemingly constant parade of direct reports coming to them with problems and challenges. The second is that in doing so, they can both challenge and develop their team members.
To get there, leaders need to respond to problems raised by direct reports by asking them some simple questions, such as “what do you think we should do about this” or “what are our options as you see it?” Get them thinking about potential solutions rather than waiting for you to provide the answer.
Read this full article on Printing Impressions, a publication of PRINTING United Alliance, ASI’s strategic partner.
