Let's have an end state discussion...
"It doesn't make sense to hire smart people and then tell them what to do. We hire smart people so they can tell us what to do." Steve Jobs
In a coaching session the other day I was presented a familiar problem - the employee who wants to be told what to do, step by step. It is a familiar occurrence in organizations. Frankly, each of us, before we matured as leaders and as employees, were that person. Step by step instructions, a form of micromanagement, take the sweat out of the task. Akin to watching a Youtube video on how to repair a dishwasher, some subordinates might want a demonstration - an instruction manual to provide complete clarity to avoid a mistake. Unfortunately, leaders do not have the time to do this. Moreover, it stifles growth in individuals.
As I was listening to my client describe the interaction and routine behaviors, I offered, "have an end state discussion." End state is the third part of giving intent - Purpose, Key Tasks, End State. Find more on this in my first book, "It's Personal, Not Personnel." Intent is the very best way to give instructions. There is an art to crafting intent. It is hard work but that is the work which needs to be done by leaders to ensure their desires are met and their subordinates grow.
I shared with my coaching client,. "When she comes to you as she often does and wants to know how to accomplish what you want her to accomplish, simply state, "let's have an end state discussion. Take her away from the steps of the task and talk about what you want it to look like, smell like, feel like, sound like, and or taste like, when the task is complete. Indeed, give her purpose (why) and key tasks (a few essential steps) but spend time discussing and describing the end state. When she asks for more, tell her you trust her and have confidence in her to meet your end state. You can ask for a back brief to ensure understanding but then let her free to accomplish the task even if she has to sweat it out."
Next time you encounter the employee who requires detailed instructions, smile and gently say, "Let's have an end state discussion." Then set them free and let the growth begin!
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell