Fourth Quarter 2010-Issue 2
Note From Coach Mario-At the End of the Day-“Principle-Based Empowerment”
As I listen and observe, it is not always clear that people really feel empowered to get the job done. I find that much of that uncertainty comes from people not understanding each other’s boundaries and expectations. In the daily quest for innovation and idea generation, the guidance given or not given by the leader sets the tone for the environment. If clear boundaries and expectations are identified, the work of innovation and idea generation can be executed with the necessary conviction (motivation) to progress…every day, even if it is in baby steps. Baby steps often lead to giant leaps. It does, however, take a leader to create an environment where people are truly empowered and feel and become motivated. This is where principle-based empowerment comes into the picture.
In addition to establishing for people clear boundaries and expectations, the other important component of creating an empowering environment is principle-based leadership at all levels in the organization. The principles along with clear boundaries and expectations are foundational in creating an environment that encourages people to “give that little extra.” Quite often, it is that “little extra” that makes the difference between good and sustained great. Shown below are the guiding principles and their associated boundaries and expectations that the leader proactively practices to create an empowering environment that people embrace that lead to innovation and idea generation:
PRINCIPLE — BOUNDARY and EXPECTATION
* Integrity/Honesty– Behave ethically adhering to company policy, rules of conduct, financial policies and legal rules and regulations.
* Respect– Be open and willing to listen to another individual.
* Openness/Communication– Allow for dialogue in a manner where discussion flows freely and does not include a hidden agenda.
* Diverse Viewpoints– Recognize that ideas or inputs to an idea can come from very different points of view that have roots in varied experiences and cultures.
* Optimism– Look at the glass as “half full” rather than “half empty.”
* Teamwork– Recognize that “no one wins alone” and that people need each other in the spirit of support and cooperation.
* Trust– Count on each other to fulfill agreed-upon obligations.
* Commitment– Retain accountability for the idea or innovation.
Once these principles, boundaries and expectations are understood, accepted and practiced consistently, an empowering environment is developed where people are inspired, motivate themselves and act with confidence. Through principle-based empowerment, the daily practice of innovation and idea generation can occur at all levels of the organization. –Mario Flores
Mario Flores. All Rights Reserved. No part of these materials may be reproduced in any form or by any means without written permission.
