How will you make your mark on the world? In the end, it's by getting things done. And we've learned that there are some specific aspects of effective action that constitute a set of skills, habits, and practices that you can cultivate in your time here and throughout your careers. This comprehensive list is from my students over the past two years. It's inspiring. Look over it, and think about what matters to you and what you see in the managers, leaders, and change agents that you admire.
Here's a question to consider when you've read through the list: What are your touchstones? You may find that certain items from the list jump out at you, as something you'd like to develop in yourself. It might be helpful to have some go-to thoughts, questions, or sayings that can serve as a shorthand to guide your action. One of my favorite ones is: Don't be the smartest person in the room. This can serve as a shorthand to remind you to listen and question, to consider the common-sense but overlooked point of view, to encourage participation, and to really test your ideas instead of assuming that they are correct.
Now, for the list. My students admire the person who...
gets the important stuff done every day
...
- defines assignments and tasks by bounding them effectively to enable freedom within them
- recognizes others' differing needs; tailors assignments to individual needs
- gives honest, timely feedback
- gives constructive criticism
- sets stretch goals for teams
- invests time in individual, team development
- empowers via sense of ownership, coaching and hands on experience
- prioritizes development of team members over short term tactical goals
- high E.Q.
- genuine interest in others, you as a person, but appropriately bounded
what would you add? comment or email praxis@sloan.mit