Which Direction

It used to be that if you were planning a trip you would get a map and figure out a route. Everyone had a road map in their car and would pull it out if they were lost or needed to know how to get to the next town. You would have to have a state map and a local map and sometimes multiple states if you were traveling across the country. Now days if you want to get somewhere you can check Mapquest, Google Maps or if you have a GPS you can use that. This will give you precise directions on how to get to your location. So what does all this have to do with leadership?

As a leader you have to give directions to those around you. Just like finding your way to a destination in your car has changed giving directions to the people you lead has also changed. People learn differently so as you give direction you need to make sure everyone understands exactly what is expected of them.

Training people do do their job is a role you as the leader must play. It is important that you train them to be quality employees. The directions need to be stated clearly and accurately. Here are some steps to take to ensure you are giving adequate directions.

• State them clearly and accurately.
• Tell them exactly what you expect of them.
• If the task is open to independent thinking allow them to create some processes of their own. Guide them in this process without micromangaing.
• Check for understanding
• Re-train using a different approach if necessary.

Before leaving them to do their work make sure they absolutely know what they are doing and always leave yourself open to questions. Make sure they know to come to you with as many questions until they understand.

Successful directions create successful employees.