The Finesse Factor

Have you seen them? You know, those leaders who are so smooth, so polished, and see the big picture so effectively they can pull together what feels like a hopeless set of circumstances and keep things moving forward.

They’re fabulous...

…and they are rare.

Finesse is a Competency

Let me be very clear…leaders with the finesse factor do far more than weave together words in a way that makes people feel good about themselves or their situation. Lots of leaders talk…very few deliver on that talk.

It is something beyond words that sadly is so foreign in the world of work today. Leaders with finesse actually deliver on what they say.

Think about the leader struggling to understand their future path, and suddenly an executive steps in and not only explains their vision for the future, but takes action to ensure it happens quickly…

Or a new manager who is struggling to find their way in the organization, and their leader invests the time to not only be patient, but to paint a picture of how their strengths match with the complex layers of the company...

And then there is life outside of work…stress and strain is not exclusive to the workplace, and that same leader guides those around them to see a clear path through the “impossible situation” of the moment.

How About You

Do you understand the role finesse plays in leading effectively? 

Having lots of experience, or being a really smart hard-charger only gets you to the start of the race. It is finesse that will get you across the finish line.

I’d love to hear from you.

No Excuses. 

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Collaborate? Why? I Already Have All The Answers!

A Recruitment Priority


An interesting phenomenon has entered the leadership recruitment discussions I have been involved with lately.  That is, what is the primary skill required of a new leader joining an organization?

• Extensive experience?
• Technical competence?
• Demonstrated financial savvy?
• Ability to collaborate with others?

Wait.  What was that last one?

• Ability to collaborate with others?

Hmmm.  Collaboration.  As the number one priority?  That does not sound nearly as sexy as "saved $2 million dollars on the benefit plan" or; "implemented a process that increased net revenue by 18%."  I'm not suggesting these examples are not important; in fact, they are terrific successes.  However, if we are going to push ourselves to identify core competencies for leaders, collaboration must be near the top.


Many Perspectives - Common Theme


This issue comes up in a variety of ways.  Ken Blanchard addresses collaboration  in this brief slideshare presentation. 





Accomplished HR Leader and blogger Trish McFarlane wrote this piece on the benefits of connecting with disengaged employees.  Both of these examples point to the critical importance of collaboration. 

Risks and Rewards


We can all appreciate the fear that creeps in when we give up a measure of control.  Oh sure, we profess to be inclusive, but when push comes to shove, do we really let go?  Are we willing to listen to our teams and let their opinions count?  Do we fully appreciate the reward we will receive when we work together with our talented employees? 


 






What About You?


Do you collaborate with your team?  Have you taken the steps necessary in your approach to leadership that demonstrates your commitment to collaboration?  If I met with your team would they confirm your commitment?  I know this isn't easy...it certainly isn't easy for me.


I'd love to hear from you.


No Excuses.


*Hands pic courtesy of bizgov.wordpress.com
*Poster courtesy of punya.educ.msu.edu/blog/