2 Paths for Getting Things Done
How do we get things done in the workplace? Should we push people, push systems, and use authority? Are you getting things done?
Organizational culture is driving what happens in your workplace. Is the culture supportive, or is it us against them?
Which Path?
One thought is that the authoritarian approach guides what happens next, or else, nothing happens. Without authority, without pushing, without using people as a tool, nothing happens. People will do little or nothing, they’ll wait.
This is the concept of, “because I said so.” This should beg a question though. The question becomes, “Is that the culture of leadership?” Unlikely.
Another pathway suggests that potential exists in everyone. Everyone can and should contribute. Instead of thinking about tackling work or challenges with an iron fist, we instead consider that properly empowered people will figure it out together.
This path believes that everyone has talent. This is how skills are developed, talent is grown, and leaders are made.
How will leadership utilize this resource?
Getting Things Done
One path ignites ownership, creates buy-in, and establishes responsibility. It is a natural system for accountability. It is an opportunity to recognize the potential that is in everyone and it highlights the potential of the team.
This culture pulls employee teams into action. There really isn’t a reason for push. Compelled by determination and responsibility teams will achieve.
In this system empowerment is the driver. It is a good way to get things done.
The other path suggests you wait to get picked. Dominance is about authority. Judgment of people happens based on their history, not the possibility for the future. Do as I say, not as I do. You’re never paid to think.
Every culture has a choice. Every choice metaphorically mortars another brick in the culture.
Make good choices because it is not only how things will get done, it is also how things will get built.
-DEG
Dennis E. Gilbert is a business consultant, speaker (CSPTM), and culture expert. He is a five-time author and the founder of Appreciative Strategies, LLC. His business focuses on positive human performance improvement solutions through Appreciative Strategies®. Reach him through his website at Dennis-Gilbert.com or by calling +1 646.546.5553.
