Being a Leader

Cited from "Being a leader, not a micromanager" from Lynda.com

A leader's job is to focus on the outcome more than the process. Managers focus on the what and strive to let employee focus on the how.

1. Spend time carefully clarifying instructions and expectations up front. Be sure to ask question to verify employees understand the expectation.
2. Make a deal with yourself concerning how long you will wait before giving in to the desire to checkup on the employee's progress. Resist checking in until at least 60 to 70% of the allotted time has passed.
3. Change the nature of check-ins. Instead of saying, let me see the work or is it done yet, make the choice to be helpful instead of simply evaluative. For example, ask, are you good? Are you on track? Or, is there anything I can help you with?