Own the buck, don't pass the buck
"The minute you start pointing the finger, you lose power." Eric Thomas
Recall my last blog, "Start with starting with the ending in mind." It applies to this subject. What would there be to gain by talking negatively about a previous leader or leadership team? What positive outcome might come from that? What would a new leader hope to accomplish by placing blame on previous leadership for a problem which occurred under his or her watch? The answer is nothing. It is completely unnecessary and inappropriate for several reasons. Look no further than political leadership if you want concrete examples of this. I'll leave it at that.
While it may seem unfair, when a person assumes a leadership role, every existing problem or lingering deficiency is now theirs. It's the rules of the game. It's true that many new leaders replace toxic or failed ones yet, there is nothing to gain by looking backward, talking badly and placing blame. Instead, leaders ought to look forward, take complete ownership of shortfalls and never speak of the previous leader or leadership team in a negative way.
Even in cases where the previous leadership was ineffective or toxic, there may be a person or persons who favored them. This is especially true when replacing a revered leader or leadership team. The point is, a new leader does not know the sentiments of their people and ought to be cautious.
A better way to 'assume command' is to gently probe the organization to hear from individuals about what is working and what needs improvement. Subordinates may throw the previous regime under the bus but it is a leaders duty to avoid that swamp be positive and look forward. When a challenge presents itself and it has direct ties to the failures of the previous establishment, a leader ought to do nothing more than recognize the challenge and talk about ways the new team is going to address it.
Look forward, not back. Be positive and optimistic. Avoid negativity and finger pointing. Just don't do it. Own the moment, the team and the organization even with all of its warts. Your people are watching.
I've talked to several people about the fiasco which is currently underway in Afghanistan. I'll be posting an article on this very soon. I'd love a chance to talk to you and your team if you would like some perspective on what is happening.
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell