A lot of leaders are control freaks. Sometimes, it’s with good reason. After all, the buck stops with the leader, and if somebody screws up something, who’s job is really on the line?
On the other hand, a lot of followers don’t step up to take responsibility on their own. Maybe they’re afraid of being in the firing line. Maybe they are comfortable enough with what they’re doing.
It requires give and take from both sides to allow employees a chance for growth while not simply handing out growth opportunities to those with the most seniority but the least drive.
Many people on your team would love to be the person asked to step up. They just don’t get a chance. We don’t hand over enough responsibility. We believe we are the only ones who can do it. And yet, if we could let go of that belief, we would discover so many great people who would love to take ownership.
I wish I had a nickel for every up-and-coming leader who has told me that he simply can’t get away from his business. He doesn’t have anyone who can run things while he takes on the roles that only he should be doing. That might be a greater communications role, spending more time with clients, prospects, business partners, speaking at conferences, or doing media interviews. They stay in their businesses, instead of getting out there, because they believe there is no one on the team who can take over.
The reason I am skeptical because I’ve seen it happen when push comes to shove–motivated employees step up and deliver. When there is a crisis, and you really have to count on people (and you’ve hired and trained them well) they get it done. Motivating your team to take ownership starts with you; it’s a matter of letting go. Yes you have to prepare them. You have to tell them you believe in them. And then you have to let them fly.
People are motivated when they know you have confidence in them to do the job their way. They are motivated because they understand what’s on the line, and they are glad to have a chance to prove themselves.
Try it. Start by believing your way isn’t the only way. Give someone a chance. You won’t believe how motivated people can be, when you give them the opportunity to show you.
