Get Out of Their Way

Can you over-lead or be so engaged in your business that it is to a point where your leadership becomes a hindrance? I personally believe that there is a time when a leader must get out of the way and let their people perform. You cannot be permanently perched over the shoulder of an employee and expect him or her to perform at optimal levels. This has been likened to a track coach running behind one of his or her athletes yelling "Run Faster!" This approach to leadership simply does not work. If you have surrounded yourself with a team of talented folks that have a successful track record, you have to reward these individuals with the autonomy to execute.

"Don't tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and let them surprise you with their results." - George Patton

The time that leaders are removed from the immediate execution process needs to be invested in the development of new initiatives and business strategies. This time can also be invested by increasing focus on a struggling area of your business as you "measure what you treasure." Getting out of the way can be difficult for those in leadership positions that typically enjoy being in the role of field general. A benefit of this action is that you start to see people shine in roles of increased autonomy. You can convey this process in a positive fashion by defining your culture as autonomous and one in that if you need direction you seek it verses having it forced upon you. This is a very enticing proposition when recruiting those with advanced leadership skills. Not only will this build value in your organization, but in you as the leader. Give your people the room to perform and they will, more times than not, reward your trust with positive results.

What were the circumstances the last time you over-managed? How lasting was the negative impact of your actions?