Creating Connections. The subtle leadership skill that makes… | by Scott Mabry | Nov, 2020 | Medium
AI Summary
Creating connections significantly enhances leadership effectiveness by allowing leaders to harness the power of relationships within their organizations. Rather than getting bogged down in transactional interactions, effective leaders focus on connecting teams, tools, ideas, and messages to drive success. For instance, connecting teams with diverse skill sets can lead to innovative solutions for complex problems. Key concepts and ideas from the content include: - Core Leadership Skill: Creating connections is essential for effective leadership, surpassing the value of control. - Types of Connections: - Connecting teams to solve problems. - Connecting people with tools for enhanced productivity. - Connecting ideas with strategic objectives. - Connecting behaviors to results through feedback. - Connecting messages to their appropriate audiences. - Expanding Connections: Leaders should aim to enhance existing connections and repair those that are ineffective. - Intentional Leadership: Being deliberate in creating connections expands a leader's impact. - Organizational Networks: Organizations function as networks, and their effectiveness depends on well-made connections. - Dot-Connecting Skills: Mastering the ability to connect various elements within the organization is crucial for leadership success. - Practical Exercise: Keeping a journal to track daily connection-related events can help leaders understand the importance of their role in creating, repairing, or expanding connections. Emphasizing curiosity and active observation can lead to more resilient organizations through stronger connections.
Why It Matters for Leaders
This article highlights the importance of creating connections as a subtle yet powerful leadership skill for Engineering Leaders, helping them navigate the complexities of team dynamics and enhance organizational effectiveness. An actionable takeaway is to keep a journal to track daily opportunities for making, repairing, or expanding connections, which can lead to improved team outcomes and resilience.
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