HOW TO BE A LEADER WHO MAKES IT MEAN SOMETHING
This week, we had two critical meetings in my business. The first was our quarterly review. This is where we reflect on what has happened over the last three months. We recognise the wins, and what is working.
This is a great way to get the whole team, firstly, reflecting on what we have achieved, and where we have made progress. Sharing this recognition and acknowledgement with each other.
We also look at what we want for the next quarter. We deliberately look forward so we know what we want to aim for in the next period. This informs the type of work we should be doing on a day-to-day basis in the context of what we want … our priorities.
The second meeting we had was about our strategy for 2026. Being firmly anchored in our purpose, identifying what it is we are going to do next year to deliver on this purpose.
This is big picture. To understand what we are going to do, and the key pillars that support us, to deliver on the purpose from a strategic perspective.
Ultimately, this strategy will be cascaded into the projects we work on, the plans we make, and what we do each day for the year ahead.
When we come to our next quarterly review, this is the backdrop against which we will be reflecting our wins, what is working, and what we want for the following quarter.
One of the critical roles of leadership is to create the context in which everybody else can do their great work and make their contributions. Having a cadence for doing this kind of big thinking and planning is key for delivering on your responsibilities as a leader. Making meaning for your people, being a translator of what is important and why.
Leaders need to create the link between the big picture: the purpose; the vision; the strategy; and what people do every day. To create meaning, and to help people individually find meaning in their work. In your role as a leader, you can narrate the link between the everyday work and the big picture, the difference you make as an organisation, and the contribution to the world.
Today, it is clearer than ever that people want to have a very strong why related to their work. They want to have purpose and meaning in their work and life.
Creating this link between purpose and their work is an essential role leaders play to bring out the best in their people. Helping your people understand the importance of their work, their contribution, and to feel ownership and responsibility. Simply put, people are more committed to things they believe are important.
A few questions for you to consider:
- How well are your regular reviews going?
- How well, and consistently, are you doing your strategic planning?
- Who are the right people to get involved in these activities?
- Who are you communicating the outcomes of these forums to?
- What is the big opportunity for you to do even better here?
I’d love to know your thoughts.
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