Three words sum up one of the greatest challenges and opportunities for most leaders. And those three words are as simple as this:
ASK, DON’T TELL.
These words are critically important for leaders at every level of an organization. No matter if you are a CEO or an aspiring rookie leader.
Here are five reasons why everyone needs to Ask, Don’t Tell:
1. Leaders are usually great at giving directions. Telling people what to do is fine, but does not engage them.
2. Asking people their viewpoint prior to taking action creates higher levels of buy-in.
3. Input leads to innovation and improvement. Can’t do it without the “ask”.
4. Asking people before telling them trains them to think for themselves and allows you to test and evaluate their judgment.
5. Asking shows respect, appreciation, accessibility, and humility. All these lead to higher levels of loyalty.
Now if you are like me, a hard charger Alpha type, this is not easy. Especially if you are under a deadline or under pressure of any sort. But by using these three words religiously, I have turned my job from Director to Teacher. From Dictator to Team Leader. From Quarterback to Coach. I can tell you for certain, those three words will do more than you can imagine. And the cool part is, you can’t really forget the concept.
Hey, it’s only three words.
ASK, DON’T TELL.
And remember its people before projects. That’s what makes the difference.