Eliminate the "On the Run" Leadership Style

Robert runs a high energy business with a dedicated team. At least on initial glimpse this is the impression someone might get as they wait in the lobby. The reality is the team is floundering for any life line they can get just so the business stays afloat. Communication is usually restricted to brief directions given as Robert runs out the door to the next important meeting. Often, the orders shouted out on the run contradict a previous task already identified as critical. It is up to the staff to interpret which task really is the priority and act accordingly.

As a direct result of this "on the run" leadership style, the staff has learned to distill their questions to the absolute priority level and push aside anything that doesn't involve stopping the boss during an obviously busy day. Procrastination, desks piled high with things to address and quality control issues surface compounding an already hectic environment.

Needless to say, the ball gets dropped and the client ultimately suffers. Now let's add into the mix the absolute need for the team to prospect on a consistent basis which, in turn, will ensure that business continues to come in the door. If systems aren't in place to manage the life blood of a service oriented business, the resulting disorganization can result in unreasonable levels of stress and an "always catching up" type of mentality.

The ability to balance current business with effective prospecting is an art--but it is an art form that can be learned as long as the parties involved are willing to dedicate attention to the details.