Junking the day's plan
We plan in vacuums where conditions are perfect. Events start and end on time and there are no environmental, human, or other factors which call for changes. However, when the day arrives, so too does friction. Murphy (see Murphy's Laws of Leadership) casts his vote and throws a monkey wrench into the plan. We had a great saying in the Army, "no plan survives first contact." It reminded us as leaders to be flexible, to be prepared for adjustments, to make on-the-spot changes yet stay on course to follow through with the original commander's intent. We were also taught not to 'fall in love with our plans.' I loved this one as it reminded us to be flexible, ready to course-correct, not completely attached to what we spent time developing.
I had a day recently in my small business where we had an opportunity to close out some pending jobs and gain a better balance in our cash-flow. I thought about it deliberately as I knew there was sound analysis and planning for the day we faced but I also saw an opportunity. I junked the day's plan. Once the team arrived at work, I followed these four steps:
Announce the change
Gather feedback - discover 2nd and 3rd order effects
Direct action
Lead
When the team arrived, I announced the change. There were some puzzled looks and I didn't have much time. I certainly gained their attention. I did explain 'why' the change - our cash-flow issues. I'm never one to give directions without the 'why.' Then I asked for feedback, specifically, what would be the impact(s) of the change. It helped me finalize the altered plan. My team - to their credit, attempted to solve all of the problems of the day. I cut them off, politely, and got them moving on the first task. I assured them we would win the day. I then directed the actions of teams and individuals while continuing to receive feedback. Then I led, problem solving, communicating, influencing, and placing myself where I thought I was needed most.
They day was not perfect. My guidance and adjustments were not either. No day or leader is but this one did call for changes. It called for us to junk the plan. Junking the plan should be the exception, not the norm, but leaders must be ready to do it and to lead through it. Keep that trashcan handy!
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell