Role Model - Like It or Not

Occasionally individuals will be quoted in interviews saying that they are not or never wanted to be a role model. It isn't our choice.

Especially as managers, whatever we do is a model for our staff. Probably also for our colleagues. We all learn from others (as well as from our own mistakes and successes.) When we do something well, others want to understand what made us succeed. When we fail, others make a note of what they think caused the failure. Our reaction to success or failure also serves as a lesson to others.

To ensure that our staff learn the best lessons, being open is important. If individuals on the team review with the whole group what contributed to their success, everyone can join in a discussion that reinforces successful actions.

For example, a particularly good presentation at a crucial point in a project may have won executive support. Discussion should focus on what make the presentation outstanding, how it came to be made at just the right moment, and what was appealing to the executives. This success may be replicated by others, improving team and corporate performance.

Discussing success is easy. As the manager, we must also be prepared to discuss failure openly. This ensures that staff understand that failure is not degrading and that addressing faults can also improve team performance.