VNLA Newsletter Spring 2018

Problem finders , those who can spot a problem or obstacle a mile away and help everyone become aware or wary of it, are much easier to find than those who find solutions to the looming obstacles that we face. Finding solutions means risking the possibility of being wrong and risking your time and a bit of your ego to make things happen without a com- plete approval. Great leaders have developed a team of crit- ical thinkers who are brave enough to make a decision and risk being wrong in that decision because they are confident in their abilities, and they clearly know what the expecta- tions of their position are. Though it is often much easier for an employee to wait for someone else to make the decision and then let them take the fall if it doesn't turn out as ex- pected, individuals and teams that are taking responsibility and growing within a company tend to take initiative to get the job done right. Of course owners and leaders must set the stage for So- lution Seekers to step up and make a difference. There is a balance to be found between being accessible and helpful to those that you lead while avoiding the old habits of keep- ing control of daily decisions that can be made without you. Finding that balance is challenging and liberating and can be the key to personal and professional growth for everyone in the organization. It might be interesting to ask, "How many people on our team are waiting for me to make the

final call?" Is that because they are not performing in a cul- ture where they feel safe making the decision, or is it be- cause they don't want to take the risk of being wrong? Do I prefer to call the shots, or am I looking for leaders that are comfortable in making choices that I have no need to be part of? The questions we ask ourselves and the questions we ask others each day can help us encourage the Problem Finders to take action and develop into a dynamic group of Solution Seekers. It is is our responsibility as leaders to make sure people not only feel comfortable making decisions, but that they are working in a culture that makes it easy and reward- ing to do! Communication Makers and Breakers Sometimes the best way to communicate about a problem and its possible solution is found in the types of words that are used in the discussion. As you read the following list, allow yourself to imagine conversations where you or some- one else has used one or more of these types of phrases. Can you relate with how the Conversation Makers left you feel- ing as opposed to how the Breakers might have? Which led to a productive discussion and ultimately to results? Which gave the other person the opportunity to think creatively and was more likely to lead to a solution or result?

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VNLA Newsletter LA Newsletter

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