Stay open to critical questions

Sol’s Wisdom for Leaders

Have you ever made a decision that brought forth a critical question from one of your direct reports?

Did you listen to it or do as I once did and tell them that the decision has been made and it was time to execute?

Yep! It hurts me to report that I did that.

What hurts the most, is that I was known to surround myself with a team of managers who thought critically, and upon whom I depended to make good decisions and provide wise counsel.

About two weeks after my “execute” comment, the manager who had the question to which I failed to listen, confessed that he did not execute as I had originally directed, and for a couple of good reasons which he would have shared with me had I listened.
As it turned out, the manager not only took what we agreed to do, he improved it by incorporating the suggestions he originally wanted to make.

The results were an exemplary display of organizational achievement.
Valuable lessons will be learned, either willingly or not so willingly, as I found out that day.

Sol says… “If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise.” ~ Proverbs 15:31

If you aren’t listening to those you have chosen for your team, evaluate why you have them on your team and give them your ear. 
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Make it a great day and keep being awesome.