Without
the right pace an organization is destined to die on the vine. Missed opportunities, chasing competitors and
always in reactive mode are signs that an organization needs to pick up the
pace. Quality problems, morale issues,
turnover and unfinished projects are signs that the pace is too quick for the
resources and structure.
Accomplished
leaders can set a pace that is optimal for their organization. Improved results will follow when the leader
ensures the organization can maintain that pace without constantly looking to
the leader.
In
Daniel Goleman’s book Primal Leadership, he outlines 6 leadership styles, one
of which is Pacesetting. This is a lead
by example style where the leader sets and maintains a fast pace and high
standards that drives the organization to exceed at a high level. Pacesetting is typically not sustainable and
should be used sparingly, like when a significant change to pace is required.
Ideally
the leader sets the pace, but the organization maintains the pace within its culture
– it’s the way we do things around here.
Pace is something that does require leadership by example to allow
others to see the required pace in action.
Leaders should be fast paced, but not stressed and should not ask more
of their team than they do of themselves.
Some practical actions leaders can take to set the pace and improve
results include:
1.
Be proactive.
·
Jump on opportunities and address issues before they get out
of hand.
·
Reward and celebrate proactive actions.
2.
Commit to deadlines related to external events – these are
harder to break.
3.
Reduce the time between meetings. Set your meeting pace with intention rather
than default to weekly, bi-weekly etc.
·
Run smart meetings: Only when required, and with clear
objectives that support progress.
4.
Focus on the most important challenges to keep them moving
forward.
5.
Create a structure that allows things to get done, rather
than impede them.
·
Eliminate friction points, especially if the friction is
caused by you.
Treat
time as a precious resource and use it as a tool to make sure the most
important items get done before the least important ones.