Leaders look ahead. Only then can they lead their followers into the future they’ve seen. David Sandler says it this way, “Never do anything without knowing what happens next.”
When a leader receives a request for his/her involvement/help, s/he will oftentimes ask, “If I do decide to participate, what happens next?” This allows the leader to make a more informed decision as to whether or not to get involved.
You’ve been invited to a meeting. Most leaders will not attend a meeting without receiving at least a sketchy agenda of that meeting. They would want to know what happens next if they choose to accept the invitation.
Probably the greatest hurdle a person has to overcome in order to implement this key strategy is the awkwardness of getting information from some people. They just don’t want to declare themselves, and they’re hoping that we’ll enable them to continue in that not so fine tradition. They know that “knowledge is power,” and frankly they don’t want to share the power.
Leaders learn to gently walk through that uncomfortableness – realizing that s/he can’t make the best decision if they don’t know what happens after the decision is made. Where can you see this principle applying to your life? See the poster Wishy Washy Words for another key tool in implementing this principle.
Categories: Influence, Negotiating
Magic Club Leadership Resources 