Great leaders must engage others . Whether you call it “ forced engagement ” or “ assertive engagement ,” as leaders we sometimes must be really assertive , bordering on forcing , engagement of others in meetings and conversations . Consider the following :
Why must leaders engage ? It ’ s simple . Consider how many Zoom meetings you have been in where you were bored , disinterested , and engaged in multi-tasking because you were not engaged .
How does a leader “ force engagement ?” The best leaders call you by name , ask you a question or press you for your opinion . They follow up on something you say because they want to know more . Where else do leaders actively engage participants ? In virtually everything we do . Too often , leadership is seen as simply directing other people to do specific things . Too many of us are not prepared to get other people talking .
But doesn ’ t calling on people make them feel uncomfortable ? Asking people questions , by name , can sometimes be considered “ putting people on the spot ”. Yet , wouldn ’ t a team benefit from hearing what other team members are thinking ?
What does it mean to be a great facilitator ? Leaders must create an environment in which engagement is the norm . As leaders , we must see ourselves as facilitators who move the team forward .
How can you make this approach part of your DNA ? If you do this enough , over time a leader can actually create a more engaged culture . It won ’ t be easy , but the payoff is worth any initial discomfort .
Steve Adubato , PhD , is the author of five books including his latest , " Lessons in Leadership ". He is an Emmy ® Award-winning anchor with programs airing on Thirteen / WNET ( PBS ) and NJ PBS who has appeared on CNN , FOX5 NY and NBC ' s Today Show . Steve Adubato ' s " Lessons in Leadership " video podcast with co-host Mary Gamba airs Sundays at 10:00 a . m . on News 12 +. For more information visit www . Stand-Deliver . com