If you want to make leaders, not order takers, then you must change how you lead.

Before: Give Orders

“I want you to _____.”
“Ok, boss.”

After: Share Intent

“We must _____, so that _____. Can you say that back, in your own words?”
“Ok. It sounds like we need to _____ in order to _____.”
“Right on.”

Why it works

  1. Sharing why something must be done reveals your intent. It helps them see that you’re not behaving randomly; there’s a logic to it, and they can learn it.

  2. Asking them to restate it in their own words (not just memorize it) invites them to practice thinking with your logic. It also reveals any misunderstanding, which is an excellent opportunity for you to coach them and invest in their [self-]leadership skills.

You can practice this today.

Ben and David
StrategyTeaming.com

P.S. We help leaders share their intent, unlocking initiative and better outcomes.
Reply if you’d like to learn more.


No posts found