When Efficient Leaders Fail

The ability to get things done competently and quickly is a key measure of success, but leaders can fall short if their efficient task-focus comes at the expense of a more relationship-based focus. Writing in The Harvard Business Review, executive coach Rebecca Zucker notes, “Things like building relationships, inspiring a team, developing others, and showing empathy can fall by the wayside” if efficient leaders believe these pursuits will slow them down.
 
The irony is that an intense, exclusive focus on efficiency can have a negative impact on organizational climate and make these leaders less effective overall. To combat this, Zucker offers advice for the overly task-focused:

• Solicit feedback: Ask key stakeholders how they think you balance task-focus and people-focus.
• Identify high-value ways to focus on people: For example, have periodic career development conversations with direct reports, or have coffee (live or virtual) with a colleague, getting better acquainted.
• Use self-observation and reflection: Notice when you are rushed and impatient. Discover if you are trying to avoid something or have a fear of slowing down.
• De-bunk your limiting beliefs: Talk to others who are good at balancing task- and people-focus to gain insight into how they do it.
• Practice self-management: Self-awareness can initiate a different approach. You might find yourself pausing to acknowledge a colleague’s effort, or taking time to teach a team member something new.

 
How do you balance task-focus and people-focus? To join the conversation, click "comments" above. 

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