If you say, “no,” to irrelevant things every day, you can spend more time on work that truly matters. Leaders must be willing to say, “no,” to time-wasting activities so they can say, “yes,” to valuable work. Here are some prime candidates for a “no” response.
Source: Women@Forbes, January 30, 2018.
With your own team, ask each of your direct reports to make at least two minor decisions this month that would normally involve your input or permission. Sample decisions include things like, “Can I invite Leslie to tomorrow’s meeting?” or, “Can I fix this typo on our home page?”
INSIGHTS: Follow up to check on the decisions they made (a possible coaching opportunity) and their comfort level with each decision. Then increase the number for next month. In a short time, you will have a team that is empowered and truly engaged.