Leading with Emotional Intelligence: Hands-On ... - always yours

64 LEADING WITH EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
takes to do these micro-initiatives, they usually agree that time isn’t
the real issue. What is required is commitment and discipline.
Below are a few examples of the “degree of difference” in time
and action that separates the great leader from the good leader:
Average to good leader gives feedback:
“Mary, thanks for getting the report to me.”
Time = 3 seconds
Great leader gives feedback:
“Mary, terrific job on the report BECAUSE it was well-written. I
appreciate you checking in with me during the process. I liked how
you collaborated with others on it. It will make us and you look great
in the customers’ eyes, thanks.”
Time = 12 seconds
Average to good leader on relationships:
Works in his or her office on a project and then takes a break. On
the way to the bathroom, nods at a few people and walks past some
without even looking. Heads right back to the computer.
Time = 2 minutes each time
Great leader on relationships:
Takes a break and stops at several people’s cubicles to check
on how they are doing. Asks about the projects they are working
on and inquires about any issues or challenges they are having.
The leader then asks, using the person’s name, how his or her sick
spouse is doing and thanks the person for volunteering for a new
task. At other times during the day the leader connects in a similar
way.
Time = 5 minutes each time
Average to good leader with a poor performance issue:
John is not performing as I would like him to. “John, let’s make
sure you do everything to get this right.”
Time = 2 seconds