Leader Surprise
I was given quite a treat the other day.
I perform Direct Report Meetings with those employees that report directly to me. (If you're not familiar with the process and you are a leader of any type, you probably should stop by Manager Tools and get educated.) I have a new employee and this was my first DR Meeting with her, so I didn't quite know what to expect. I did know that she seemed intelligent, capable, and shy. Other than that I had very little to go on as she was hired by others in my department while I was away on vacation.
I was thrilled to find that this young woman has leadership skills bursting from her in all directions. I'm not convinced she's aware of her potential, but I'm delighted to be part of that development. She came to my office with a mini-SWOT analysis and a detailed list of actions designed to respond to the results of that analysis. I was floored, but laid there on that cold floor in pure joy.
After reviewing her plan and making a couple small adjustments and additions, we began the development part of the meeting. She readily brought forward the fact that she was very shy and didn't know how to talk or act towards new people, and was asking me for help in this area.
Seriously, people, this is a leader's dream-come-true. As a mentor, I could barely sleep last night I was so pleased. This type of leader comes along once in a mid-sized company; someone with integrity, basic instincts, and a strong desire to serve their employees. In short, SHE GETS IT.
MJH
