Over the years, I’ve seen people get a new, much-needed job, only to lose it a month or two later. In the loop.
For some reason, their new boss (who clearly wants to hire them) won’t let them repeatedly call in sick, come in late, or spend more time chatting than giving. their commitment to do what they are paid for. do it.
I resisted the urge to encourage them (loudly), “Showing up is 90% of the strategy for success!” Alas.
As we progress in our careers, where we often fail becomes apparent. For our team. We may be physically present, regular and punctual, but are we truly “present”?
A few years ago, while I was finishing my thesis for a master’s degree in leadership and organizational development, I had the opportunity to deeply analyze what it takes to be a successful business and community leader. (“Success” is measured by the accomplishment of a planned goal.)
Presence, openness and consideration of the collective good above with knowledge and strategic thinking. In fact, the most successful leaders studied demonstrated a focus on others within the group, a commitment to building relationships, and showing respect, compassion, and a dedication to the greater good. In contrast, unsuccessful leaders are focused on their own priorities and are ego-driven, self-interested and self-centered.
I have witnessed successful and unsuccessful leadership, the latter heartbreaking when the stakes are so high: economic prosperity, business success, responsible governance, and meeting critical needs such as housing, food security, education, health care, and environmental resource management.
A “team” can be our coworkers, our larger organization, and even those outside of our organization with whom we must work to achieve goals. Often, instead of “reflecting” each other, we find ourselves at odds and opposites. We are under the misconception that we must “let it out.” The most common result? Delays, interruptions, lack of forward movement.
Accessibility for our teams – both narrowly and broadly defined – means intentionally inviting diverse perspectives and contributions, finding shared priorities, leveraging the best that has to offer each of us. Tapping into the magic of our team — and ourselves — means we have to show up.
Nancy Olson is the CEO of the Greater Eureka Chamber of Commerce, and can be reached at nancy@eurekachamber.com. He believes that practice makes better.
