Directing Others

DEFINITION
The ability to convey expectations and instructions clearly and respectfully

WHAT IS IT?
Directing others involves a manager's skill in clearly communicating expectations and providing instructions. This coordination ensures that employees work efficiently towards shared goals, avoiding confusion and disorganization.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Effective direction is a nuanced skill. Being too rigid can lead to employees feeling undervalued or demoralized, while a hands-off approach might leave them feeling uncertain and directionless. Clear and respectful communication is essential for setting expectations, ensuring accountability, and preventing frustration among team members.

Recommendations to Improve

Communicate Expectations Clearly

Address Performance Problems Early

Communicate Expectations Clearly

Firstly, ensure that your expectations are communicated with precision. Outline assignments with specific, measurable criteria for success. If you're not confident in articulating this on the spot, write it down and practice before discussing it with your employee. Clear directives are often appreciated, as employees may otherwise feel they’re guessing what is expected of them. After sharing your expectations and instructions, ask if there are any questions to confirm understanding.

Hold Employees Accountable

Address Performance Problems Early

Communicate Expectations Clearly

Direct reports should be held accountable for their commitments. Address any discrepancies calmly and constructively, for example, by saying, “Bob, you were expected to deliver this report by June 1, but it’s not completed. Can you explain the situation?” If necessary, consider extending the deadline or reassigning the task. This approach reinforces accountability while maintaining a professional tone.

Address Performance Problems Early

If you notice a direct report with a negative attitude or underperformance, schedule a meeting to address the issue directly. Present your observations and evidence of their performance issues, and invite them to share their perspective. Listen carefully and empathetically. Conclude by expressing your need for their contribution, your belief in their potential, and your expectation for improvement in attitude or behavior. End the discussion with appreciation for their time.

Books to Read

Leading with Gratitude: Eight Leadership Practices for Extraordinary Business Results

New research shows that gratitude boosts employee engagement, reduces turnover, and leads team members to express more gratitude to one another—strengthening team bonds. In this book, the authors introduce eight simple ways managers can show employees they are valued.

Real Leaders Don’t Boss: Inspire, Motivate, and Earn Respect from Employees and Watch Your Organization Soar

Real and effective leaders today–from the executive suite to the assembly line–quietly and consistently follow what Dr. Eich has identified as the seven principles of effective leadership.

Strategic Leadership: How to Think and Plan Strategically and Provide Direction

John Adair encourages leaders to focus on tomorrow rather than yesterday. It explores the nature and origin of strategic leadership, transferable skills and the art of inspiring others.

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable

Lencioni reveals the five dysfunctions which go to the very heart of why teams even the best ones-often struggle. He outlines a powerful model and actionable steps that can be used to overcome these common hurdles and build a cohesive, effective team.

Management Mess to Leadership Success: 30 Challenges to Become the Leader You Would Follow

In Miller’s Management Mess to Leadership Success you’ll find 30 leadership challenges that can, when applied, change the way you manage yourself, lead others, and produce results.

Directing Others

Recommendations to Improve

Communicate Expectations Clearly

Address Performance Problems Early

Communicate Expectations Clearly

Hold Employees Accountable

Address Performance Problems Early

Communicate Expectations Clearly

Address Performance Problems Early

Address Performance Problems Early

Address Performance Problems Early

Books to Read

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