Give Away the Credit
We need to understand that we have the need to be recognized too. Run amuck, we take credit for everything good that happens in our company. In some way it’s true; we set up the circumstances and caused things to happen. But we couldn’t do it without others. A smart leader gives away the credit.
The opposite is to take the credit and not give any to those who worked to get it done. That’s a recipe for having disgruntled people.
When things go wrong, take the blame. Stand in front of your people and say “I’m sorry guys. I didn’t get it done. Maybe I didn’t communicate well or often enough, and maybe I didn’t get you what you need to do the job, or I didn’t train you guys well. But I pledge to do better starting now.” You’ll get people wanting to do more to make it right that way, than by blaming others.
“Brains on the whole, are like hearts, and they go where they are appreciated.” – Robert S. McNamara
Are we exaggerating or simplifying here? Are there any times when you acknowledge that someone fell down on the job? Well… you hired them and put them in that position, right? If they did well, your inner self would want to take the credit. If they did not, you have to take the blame.
If you ever did need to lay blame on someone, you certainly would not do it in public anyway. People know who did what. Get up there and lead. Show that your ego is not in the way.
“You know how blame is described in the research? A way to discharge pain and discomfort.” – Brene Brown
A simple but extremely important reminder. Thank you Larry!
This leadership segment has been 🔥🔥 Everyone talks about soft skills when it comes to employees, but this is often overlooked when it comes to leadership. These are the skills that make not only great leaders but great people. I have truly appreciated reading these.
great series!