In a meeting with a client yesterday, we talked about the books, movies, experiences, situations, training, coaching, etc. that is our job to bring to other people as business leaders.

These are tools to stretch the minds of those we care about.  This client is frustrated by one of his business partners that are entrenched in the old school “command and control” style of leadership.

During our discussion, I challenged him to hold group session with the partner and other members of his core team (I thought this would work well since he believes in teamwork).  The meeting would be to establish a ten year Vision and some clear, key SMAART goals.

He responded by saying he was not sure what the goals should be, and that he did not want to do that with the team; instead, he and his partner should make that decision.  As soon as the words were out, he realized that while he said he believed in teamwork, maybe he was not as committed to it as he should be.

This client is also used to going into meetings knowing the answers.  A secondary reason he was unwilling to have the meeting was that he did not have answers.  He realized he needed to develop the skill of being willing to go into the unknown.  That is a key part of being able to build, maintain and grow a great team.

• What experiences do you need to become a better leader?

• How are you encouraging your leaders and teams to go into the unknown?

• Are you demonstrating your beliefs and values with action?

If your organization wants to gain new perspectives and challenge your leaders and teams to be willing to go into the unknown, contact our expert guides by calling 800-786-4332, or email JSabatini@AppliedVisionWorks.com.  Success is in plain sight and only takes 30 minutes to get started!