Hey you.
We like you.
We want you to win.
So we have to make things harder.
Alignment is not a one-dimensional challenge.
You need to start thinking about alignment in four different directions.
First, your boss, wherever you are in the org: The board, C-level, VP, Director, etc.
Second, your peers, if you have any. They don’t answer to you. Ideally, you act jointly.
Third, those in your care. They look to you for direction. Your direct reports, usually.
Fourth, those you depend on, outside the usual reporting chain, even outside the org.
Misalignment in any of these four directions will undermine any benefit of joint action.
Our best advice? Don’t bother with trust. It’s too vague, and there are so many competing ambitions and interests and wills that you’ll never get what you want.
Instead, be predictable.
In all four directions, say what you intend to do, then do it. Invite them to do the same.
Briefing, backbriefing, coordination… all of that is about alignment through predictability, and these four directions each need your attention.
In the game of alignment, it’s better to be predictable than to be liked.
Ben and David
StrategyTeaming.com