Leading and managing is tough. From the outside looking in it can look really easy and as most will tell you there is a big difference between perceptions, theory and practice.
As you kick off a new year year there are going to be things you want to keep doing and things you perhaps want to change. Either way in reality as a leader or manager you are judged on results. So what can you do to achieve better results as a leader and manager?
Be Clear About What Is Expected Of You
I am continually surprised by the number of leaders and managers who lack real clarity on what is expected of them in terms of results. Often when they are asked this question they pull out some lengthy job decsription that says a lot about activities an very little about results.
Tip: Ask your boss what are the top 3 to 5 results that you are expected to deliver in the next 12 months.
Start Tracking How You Spend Your Time
Everyone talks about constraints. The truth is that time is your ultimate constraint. No matter who you are you cannot upgrade the number of hours you have available.
Tip: Set up a system to record where you are investing your time over a typical working cycle. Then compare this against your key results areas. You might just be surprised at what this reveals.
Get Feedback
There is a saying that feedback is the breakfast of champions. Surprisingly many leaders and managers are reluctant to ask for feedback or do it reluctantly as part of some performance review process.
Tip: Make asking for feedback a matter of routine. Pay attention to common patterns and take action to improve.
Aim To The Best Version Of You
You are unique as an individual and as a result are unique as a leader and manager. Always be willing to learn from others and at the same time never ever lose your individuality.
Tip: Ask yourself what you want to be known for as a leader and manager and then write down your responses. Doing this will give clarity about being the best version of you actually means to you.
Duncan Brodie helps accountants and other business professionals to become highly effective leaders and managers. He invites you to sign up for his free leadership audio e-course
Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.