How To Make Sure What You Need to Do Gets Done

I listened to a podcast recently where the host and guest discussed a well-known leader.

The guest described this leader as having the right agenda but with the wrong execution.

So often, when a leader fails to produce needed change, we blame it on a failed agenda when in reality, it is a failure in execution. Execution is everything when it comes to fulfilling an agenda.

An agenda is more than a list of steps to complete a task or project. It is a theme or focus of an individual’s leadership. The agenda may originate as a vision or a deep feeling, but it comes to describe both the actions and allocation of time and energy of the leader.

How does a good agenda get derailed? Here are four common mistakes:

Failure to keep the main thing the main thing. Whatever your agenda is, it needs to be your top priority...period. If you bring an agenda of innovation into a moribund organization, then innovation needs to be your top focus each day. You cannot drop it for a secondary agenda because the primary agenda is difficult to implement, or you become bored with it.

Failure to observe the speed limit. Every organization has a speed limit- the pace of change that it can handle. For some, it is very fast paced, and for others, it’s like driving in a school zone. Your agenda needs to match the speed at which the organization operates. In due time, you can start to change an organization’s speed limit to make it what it needs to be.

Failure to read the room. This is when you don’t know the uniqueness of the people under your leadership. Failure to read the room reveals a lack of emotional intelligence, and the consequence is that you will not get buy-in from those who can make the agenda happen. People will not be willing to go the extra mile or speak up for the agenda on their own.

Fortunately, emotional intelligence can be developed. Have a trusted person on the team who can help you see your relational shortcomings, but make sure you are continuing to improve in this area.

Failure to share the victories. When the wins come, a failure to celebrate as a team is a sure way to prevent future victories from happening. People who feel valued add value. Overlook their contributions, and they will let their energy and focus slip.

Make sure to acknowledge key contributions and team efforts.

The bottom line: the right agenda with the right execution is an unbeatable combination. Don’t quit on your agenda without first evaluating your execution.