What Did You Teach Your Team Today?

Every day presents opportunities to learn - so the question is:   what did you teach your team today?   Let's imagine some after work conversations (that probably don't require a whole lot of imagination) to see what team members were taught today.

"You know that issue I've been grousing about  - the one in which my boss just won't let me have my way?     Well, today I essentially threw a temper tantrum and she finally caved. . ."  What did the leader just teach the individual - hint:  the future is filled with the behavior of a ten year old.

"I told my boss that despite what he wanted, I didn't see the value in collaborating with the shipping team - that I'm just going to do it myself.  I don't think he was too happy but he didn't stop  me."    What did this individual learn from his boss's passive approach?

"I figure that if they don't look at the facts - it's their own damn fault - so I just threw some numbers in and everyone just nods their heads up and down and it's a done deal."  Hmmmmm. . . .

"I waited and waited and waited  for her. . .and she just kept talking to her friend from accounting and didn't even acknowledge that I was waiting. . ."   So did this individual learn that she is important. . .or not?

"He always sounds as if he's upset by what people are doing. . .but he never writes anyone up or counsels them - so we all slide by.   Cheers!"

Or. . .

"I don't like it, but I've been given my orders.   At least she explained to me her reasoning - who knows, it may work."

"My boss clearly gave me the expectation that there is not an alternative to collaboration.   So I guess I can't go it alone;   maybe it will be less work."

"Crap. . .I thought I could slide by, but they had all of the numbers right in front of them. . ."

"I know she was crazy busy - but at least she took time to listen so there's hope."

"Rumor has it that several people were counseled for their behavior. . .so maybe things will work out after all."

Each day, through our actions, we are teaching lessons.   Even passivity teaches an active lesson.   Seize the opportunities. . .for you are a counselor, teacher and coach.

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My book "Courageous Questions, Confident Leaders"   is available on Amazon Kindle.