And finally......getting it all done
“Our doubts are traitors, And make us lose the good we oft might win, By fearing to attempt.”
William Shakespeare's 'Measure for Measure' (Lucio, Act 1, Scene 5)
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The need to accomplish the tasks for which any group exists is the main and most obvious aim of the leader. However, in our zeal to achieve targets, all too often we fall into the trap of 'doing it ourselves'. Let's not!
Remember - the group was created because the job is too big for one individual, even you.
Your main contribution to achieving the task is to:
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be clear about the aim of the group and regularly remind people of it;
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understand how the task(s) fits within the overall plans of the organisation;
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secure resources - people, £££s, etc;
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create the plan to achieve the task;
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establish responsibilities, objectives and accountabilities;
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set standards, quality, time and reporting parameters;
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control and maintain overall performance against plan;
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report on progress towards the group's aim;
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review, re-assess, adjust plan, methods and targets as necessary.
Your main contribution to building the group is to
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establish and communicate standards of performance and behaviour;
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establish style, culture, approach of the group - i.e. your soft skills;
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monitor and maintain discipline, ethics, integrity and focus on objectives;
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anticipate and resolve group conflict, struggles or disagreements;
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assess and change, as necessary, the balance and composition of the group;
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progressively increase group freedom and authority;
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identify and agree leadership roles within group;
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ensure effective communication within the group and with those outside it;
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identify and meet group training needs;
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give feedback to the group on overall progress;
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consult with, and seek feedback and input from the group.
Your main contribution to developing the individual is to
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understand them - personality, skills, strengths, needs, aims and fears;
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assist and support them - their plans, problems, challenges, highs and lows;
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identify and agree appropriate individual responsibilities and objectives;
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recognise and praise individuals - acknowledge effort and good work;
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if appropriate, give individuals extra responsibility and status;
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identify, develop and utilise each individual's capabilities and strengths;
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train and develop each individual;
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develop individual freedom and authority.
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That should keep you busy!!
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