Friday, April 04, 2008
Leadership Failure #1 - Improper Planning
While digging through some boxes in my basement, I came across a tattered notebook where I had listed 5 failures of leadership. There was no indication I had copied these from somewhere or created them myself. What I do know is these thoughts are about a decade old. I’ll share each of these failures and look for your comments.
There are several ways an organization can fail, and an effective leader will know how to work through each one of these.
Leadership Failure #1 - IMPROPER PLANNING
There are many companies in existence today built on the strength of a new idea, product, or service—100 years ago. Yet, we are certain that the future is not going to be the same as the past or the present. Change is ever present.
The marketplace and economic conditions may have changed so it is necessary to modify objections, goals, and plans to stay competitive. The leader who cannot adjust to business cycles will encounter difficulties.
Other planning areas to consider include: employee and staffing needs, product innovation, sales and marketing
As a leader, tuning in to the human side of your business will allow you more accuracy in planning. Never assume that your loyal team is going to remain your loyal team.
3 Tips For Handling Planning
1) Be flexible
2) Be prepared to meet changing circumstances
3) Undertake new training
My only caution is - Do not get so engrossed in planning that you implement nothing!
Until next time...live like you mean it!
Marjorie