Individual contributors often fail to recognize that their role is changing as a managers. Managers rely on their teams to accomplish the goals and strategies set forth by the organization. Managers have success by creating a vision and then sharing that vision across the organization and team.
For example, when I was working in a financial services organization, I wanted to increase the number of audits we conducted. To do that it required a review of staffing across the team. I noted that the team was not appropriately staffed at the project manager level. I wanted to be able to execute three audits continuously. Without the appropriate staffing, executing the audits on plan wouldn’t be possible. Requesting additional headcount required me to communicate the need for resources due to an increase in projects we wanted to execute. Having the vision and then focusing on tactical execution was key to communicating the vision and improving over the prior year.
One of my favorite goal-setting books is The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon. This book focuses on a mid-level team lead who is having trouble in his personal and professional life. Until one day, he gets on the energy bus. The energy bus is full of people like the main character who have decided to take part in the rules of the energy bus. The bus driver walks them through a visualization process to ensure they are all working in the right direction. See below for tips on how to ride the bus and setup your own personal vision.
The process is as follows:
- You’re the Driver: Take responsibility for your own energy and choices.
- Desire: Know where you want to go and have a clear vision.
- Faith: Believe in yourself and your vision.
- Trust: Surround yourself with positive people who support your journey.
- Fuel: Feed your mind with positive thoughts and affirmations.
- Direction: Stay focused on your goals and take consistent action.
- Communication: Share your vision and energy with others.
- Encouragement: Lift others up and foster a supportive environment.
- Inspiration: Seek out and create inspiration in your life and work.
- Purpose: Know your “why” and align your actions with your values.
Your vision = your future