Ever find yourself, as a manager, transforming into ‘Mr. Perfection’ every time a team member brings forward an idea or proposal? Guilty as charged? It’s fine, most of us have been there! But perhaps, it’s time to take a step back and ponder!”
Marshall Goldsmith, in his lovely book, “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There,” highlights the “Managerial Itch” to critique and ‘add value’ to every idea that comes their way. It’s the hierarchical equivalent of the Pavlovian response: see a new proposal, BAM! unleash a flood of ‘constructive criticism.’
Studies, including those published in the Journal of Business and Psychology, have shown that such well-meaning interference can suppress creativity and innovation and decrease job satisfaction. The unsaid message sent is that nothing is ever good enough unless perfected by your’s truely.
But here’s the thing: For corporate heaven’s sake, not everything has to be a masterpiece! By setting impossibly high standards and aggressively grabbing the steering wheel, managers stifle creativity and initiative. Sometimes, allowing the team to create something that isn’t ‘perfect’ can lead to more learning and innovation.
So, how can managers resist the urge to be the ‘Maestro of Modification’?
- Lower The Bar Sometimes:
It’s okay to accept that not everything has to meet exceedingly high standards. Encourage progress and learning, rather than perfection. Celebrate the effort and innovation, even if the outcome isn’t flawless. - Ask, Don’t Tell:
Encourage deeper thinking by asking open-ended questions rather than imposing your views or solutions. - Cultivate a Sense of Ownership:
Allow your team members the autonomy to make the final calls on their proposals, promoting responsibility. - Cheer for Creativity:
Appreciate creative efforts and innovative ideas even if they are not embodiments of perfection.
Becoming the manager everyone craves involves not just guiding your team but also knowing when to shut up and step back. Next time, instead of being the ‘Sultan of Suggestions,’ try being the ‘Mentor of Motivation,’ who fosters innovation and growth without overshadowing the team!
#MissionInspire1Million 