The Situation: Building Relationships
The general manager felt Joan was very successful in the getting the job one. However, she left many bodies and harsh in her communications with her people. Joan is very task orientated. Her executive presence was fair her leadership presence lacking in connecting those around her. Her general manager would like her be considered for the next GM of another group only if Joan could learn to use the finer skills in building relationships and still be successful as a leader.
The Solution/Action Plan:
Joan watched herself in a replay of a video of herself and realized how harsh she could be in her comments and tone when dealing with situations that did not meet her expectations. Her Platinum Rule assessment clearly indicated she was task driven and her observers also painted a clear picture of this. Her assignment was to understand the different communications styles of her team and to adapt their different styles. At the same time be clear about her expectations and what is needed to be successful outcome. Joan expected them to deliver what she would do but now understood asking questions and listening to help them see her see their point of view as well she sees theirs.
Joan also began to take the time to begin meetings letting the team have some dialog to get to build relationships by getting them to know her and vice a versa. Also did the same on team conference calls by beginning the dialog asking how the week went as an example. Also, during the meetings with senior management Joan began to temper her comments with a tone of inquiring instead of one of an accusatory one.
The Outcome:
The Outcome: Joan’s change in her demeanor, actions and work with her team was over a period of six months where then it became a matter-of-fact Joan’s change was not temporary but understood as a leader. It was first noticed immediately during the meeting with her GM and senior team. Close to a year later Joan is now been promoted to the next level and is being considered as the next General Manager in another group in the reorganization next year. This is a well-respected global Fortune 500 company.
“Your success is determined by how much you can learn from your failures.” Joel Brown