OWN IT! A Fundamental Principle for New Leaders

Emerging Leaders, as you begin or continue your journey as a new leader, it’s critical to base your leadership style on this one fundamental principle: you are responsible for everything your team does and fails to do. This means that, even though you may assign or delegate tasks to your team members, you are ultimately accountable for the outcome. Period.

What Taking Ownership does NOT mean

However, taking responsibility doesn’t mean hoarding the work or micromanaging your team. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. A good leader empowers their team with training, and holds them accountable to do their best work. If the team fails to deliver results, that’s when taking ownership is most important. If you’re effective in this approach and your team knows the results are short of expectations, they will take the same ownership with you and the rest of the team.

The Power of Recognition

When they do hit the mark, one of the most important things you can do as a leader is to give your team credit for the success. When your team accomplishes a goal or completes a project, make sure they receive recognition and the credit for the results. This builds loyalty and trust within your team, and it also helps to foster a positive and productive work environment.

Your Reward

On the other hand, the strongest loyalties are created when you take the blame for any failures rather than throwing your team under the bus. It means owning the mistakes or shortcomings and working with your team to address the issue and find a solution.

Leadership can be a lonely place when you consider the prospects of giving your team the credit for successes, and owning the failures. As a result, it’s natural to feel isolated or overwhelmed at times, but remember that you’re not alone. Seek out mentorship and guidance from other experienced leaders, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Train your team. Trust your team. Give credit where it’s due. Take responsibility for any failures. Do this and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful and respected leader.

Call to Action: seek mentorship and guidance on how to implement this fundamental principle.