Planting Seeds of Leadership
Last week, I got on a wine kick and this week I will continue the farming theme! Have you noticed that often the best way to influence behavior is to cultivate the idea in other people’s minds? I had a coworker tell me once that the only change I like is the change I initiate. That stung a bit, but it is true. And so that I can justify myself, I will argue that we all probably can see ourselves in that way. The most effective change management is when the team that is tasked with changing is engaged in that change. Similarly, as a leader, the most productive ‘harvest’ comes not from dictating every move but from nurturing the growth of decision-makers within your team. As leaders, our role is akin to that of a gardener—planting seeds of knowledge, providing the right environment for growth, and guiding our teams to cultivate their own solutions. This approach not only empowers individuals but also fosters a culture of innovation and resilience.
Just as a gardener carefully selects the seeds to plant, a leader must be intentional about the knowledge and skills they impart to their team. The goal is to equip team members with the tools they need to navigate challenges independently. This begins with creating an environment where curiosity is encouraged, and questions are welcomed. By fostering a culture of open communication, leaders can plant the seeds of critical thinking and problem-solving. Encourage your team to ask questions and explore different perspectives. This can be done through regular brainstorming sessions where no idea is too outlandish. By doing so, you create a safe space for creativity and innovation to flourish.
However, it's crucial to understand the difference between simply dropping hints and genuinely mentoring your team through the decision-making process. Instead of providing solutions, ask questions that lead your team to think critically about the problem at hand. Questions like "What are the potential outcomes of this decision?" or "How does this align with our goals?" While you want to encourage creativity, there is a delicate balance to achieve. If you have not set appropriate boundaries by focusing the topic of discussion based on strategy and information at hand, you may get inappropriate “solutions.” But asking a leading questions that hint at a solution will inhibit the team’s ability to think innovatively.
Once the seeds are planted, the next step is nurturing their growth. This involves guiding your team through the decision-making process without dictating the outcome. Mentoring is about providing support and guidance while allowing team members to take ownership of their decisions. Feedback is essential for growth. Offer constructive feedback that focuses on the process rather than the outcome. Highlight what was done well and areas for improvement, encouraging a mindset of continuous learning. Acknowledge and celebrate the successes of your team, no matter how small. This reinforces the value of their contributions and encourages continued growth. Equally important is creating a culture where failures are seen as learning opportunities rather than setbacks.
Be warned, It's easy to fall into the trap of dropping hints, thinking it will guide your team to the right solution. However, this approach can lead to confusion and dependency, as team members may struggle to decipher the intended message. True mentoring involves clear communication and a genuine investment in your team's development. Be clear about your role as a mentor and the goals of your guidance. Transparency builds trust and ensures that team members understand the purpose of your questions and feedback.
Leading your team to decisions rather than dictating solutions is a powerful way to cultivate a culture of empowerment and innovation. By planting seeds of knowledge, nurturing growth through mentoring, and harvesting the benefits of empowered decision-makers, leaders can create a thriving environment where both individuals and the organization flourish. Remember, the goal is not to create followers but to cultivate leaders who are capable of navigating the complexities of today's ever-changing world.