Accountability breeds success

Being an executive comes with tremendous responsibility. If our business stops being successful or doesn’t meet expectations, it is us – the presidents, CEOs, directors, etc. – who must answer to our board or shareholders.

But even though we’re the ultimate decision maker, it doesn’t mean we’re in this alone. A great leader creates a culture that empowers employees to contribute effectively to the overall mission and goals. Part of that is holding everyone accountable to their responsibilities.

Leadership guru Dan Rockwell astutely notes that most people find holding others accountable “distasteful” because we’re inclined to pick up the slack (this gives me flashbacks to group projects in school), want to be liked, try to avoid uncomfortable situations and more.

We need to overcome this anti-accountability disposition. Here are some tips from Rockwell to start holding people accountable:

 

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