Part 2 A Leader’s Roadmap

(Intro from Part 1) Businesses are becoming more complex. It’s harder to predict outcomes because intricate systems interact in unexpected ways. 

Staying on track is much easier with a guide or checklist. Michael Useem, a professor at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and bestselling author of The Leadership Moment, has published The Leader’s Checklist to create a clear roadmap for navigating any situation. I will present in the blog in condensed form, with sample questions accompanying each principle.

2. Think and Act Strategically: Make a practical plan for achieving your teams vision, including both short- and long-term strategies. Anticipate reactions and resistance before they happen by considering all team member’s perspectives.

Leaders and teams must explore others’ expectations, assumptions, underlying values and priorities. This can be accomplished in group or individual sessions, led by a manager or coach.  When there is an elevated degree of conflict, it’s wise to retain a professional who is trained in interpersonal skills and mediation.

Behind every complaint is an underlying value that goes unsatisfied. Asking questions like “What’s really important here?” often allows you to uncover competing values and priorities. You will facilitate more authentic conversations when you ask the right questions.

a. Do we have a realistic plan for creating short-term results, as well as mapping out the future?
b. Have we considered all stakeholders and anticipated objections?
c. Has everyone bought into, and does everyone understand, the firm’s competitive strategy and value drivers? Can they explain it to others?