I've recently had the privilege to speak at several #DisruptHR events in Atlanta and Tampa. My talk focused on the potential for human resources leaders...and candidly, all leaders...to take risks, live their values, and lead with conviction.
That's what is most important, right?
HR Stuff Matters, But...
It's not that updating policy manuals, going to the Forms Committee meeting, and ensuring open enrollment goes smoothly aren't important. But, these things don't drive business results.
Living your values, and leading with conviction do.
When was the last time you led with your personal values first...and corporate double-talk last?
Take the Step
One of the things I found so encouraging during those DisruptHR events was the energy the attendees had to make changes. They are ready to move forward into new territory in their organizations.
They are ready to go for it.
How About You
Are you ready to join them? What is on your list that seems impossible to execute, but with some support (from me!) and some courage (from you!) it can become a reality?
You gotta go for it!
I'd love to hear from you.
No Excuses.
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How much latitude do you have in your job to make mistakes? Seriously, do you feel nervous or anxious about it (beyond the normal frustration of overlooking something or making a small error)?
Are you supposed to be superhuman at work and never make a mistake?
Fail Quickly! Ha!
Okay...let's just stop right here for a minute. Quick show of hands, how many of you get excited about failing really quickly with your new ideas in front of your leaders and employees?
Anyone? Hello?
Right. Neither do I.
Sure, I get the whole "go for it approach." I've spent years trying new things.
However, I've been able to lead that way because I worked in this organization and now work here and both places afforded me lots of flexibility to be creative, succeed, and yes, sometimes fail without repercussions.
It's that last part - without repercussions - that often stands in the way of failing quickly as a good thing.
Never Fail
When the world thinks you're supposed to be perfect...every time...how do you survive?
How do you dare to push and twist and turn and risk and gamble on new ideas to stay competitive and relevant if you're going to be punished if you fail?
Three steps is what it takes.
1. Use language that aligns to your business, not human resources. Demonstrate why your idea adds value to the business, not some lame HR jargon filled spiel.
2. Know what you're talking about. Don't throw around terms and strategies you don't fully understand. Be confident.
3. Act with conviction and do it. Don't be timid or scared. Behave as if the other skeptics in the room are out of touch, not you. Take the risk. Don't worry if you're alone. That's how this works.
How About You
Don't you think it's time you pushed that idea forward that you've had rolling around in your head for so long? I do too. Get your plan together and go for it. If you want a sounding board, call me at 727.809.4425 and we'll talk through it.
I'd love to hear from you.
No Excuses.
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"I'm happy to do whatever you want me to do."
"Oh, I'm ready to jump in at anytime, just tell me what you need."
"I fully support this move, what would you like me to do?"
Talk is Cheap
We've all heard these comments...often times from leaders in our organizations. Perhaps we've even said them ourselves.
They appear to be well-intended expressions of support, right? Real team-players stepping up to help...right?
Not so fast.
Let's take a moment and think about the people in our companies that take action first versus offering to do "whatever." That feels different.
Their impact is very different.
They make things happen. They not only connect with us on what needs to be done, but they actually take steps to get things done.
It's Always Action That Wins
Maybe I've become cynical?
Maybe I've heard too many expressions of support to my face, only to learn that same 'support' is non-existent when it comes down to making decisions and taking a risk?
Or, maybe I have a new level of insight about people?
They love being seen as helpful and popular, but are rarely strong enough to tackle big issues that involve risk.
Yes. I believe that is true.
How About You
Are you someone who not only offers support, but immediately jumps into the fire to get things done? Or, are you much more comfortable offering support all day long, and then heading home feeling good about yourself and your "support?"
I'd love to hear from you.
No Excuses.
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