One of the best qualities of Interstates is leaders who want to make a difference for their clients, help their teams, and solve problems (e.g. the Git ‘er Done mentality). This attribute has helped build Interstates and our reputation of being responsive and providing great service to our clients, which is awesome!!!
Could this same strength become a weakness? I hate to say it — Yes it can. You might be thinking, “sounds like a crap sandwich, Scott!” Maybe it is; maybe it isn’t. Let me explain and then you give me your take on it.
If we as leaders only focus on getting things done by jumping in and solving problems, then it will become a weakness. We will focus on the challenge. We will set the direction at the beginning and then forget about it. We will also forget about the people. We and our teams will become lost in the challenge. Think back to your leadership challenges in EIL. As the challenge moves along, we forget about the direction/the goal. We become more intense and more focused on getting it done (winning). That is when this strength moves from an asset to a leadership liability.
The next time you are faced with a challenge:
- Set the direction
- Embrace this strength
- Remember the direction/goal during the whole process of overcoming the challenge
If you do this, it will be a great example of how to Lead the Interstates Way.
So, what’s your take on it?
Scott Peterson
