In my last two blogs I have been discussing how to make feedback actionable. So far we´ve covered Step ONE: Information and Step TWO: Insight. This blog will focus on Step THREE: Innovation.
STEP THREE: After the executive digests and assimilates the feedback, we then support them in transforming these insights into INNOVATION through action....
Help them boil down their insights to 3 top goals. Ask the executive: If they could work on 1-3 goals what would they be? Then:
- Encourage them to align their personal focus with organizational objectives...."How do you see this dovetailing with the top business imperatives for this organization?"
- Brainstorm with the executive possible strategies and tactics to enhance their leadership performance.
- Discuss appropriate communications strategies around their goals.
And then, here is the key...take this innovative thinking into action by asking the executive to commit to an Action Plan:
- The Executive should focus on fewer high-leverage goals and create an action plan for success. Less is more.
- The executive´s action plan should reflect what they are passionate about working on. NOT what you think they should work on. Let them generate a quick win optimizing their strengths. Build trust first and then ask them to work on their gaps later.
The Action Plan is essential in making feedback actionable. So what would a good action plan look like?
1. Recap Feedback: Have the executive recap their feedback in just a few sentences.
2. State Goals: Only 1-3 high-impact goals that they are passionate about working on.
3. Actions: For each goal identify manageable actions contributing to that goal.
4. Measures: Establish how each action will be measured.
5. Potential Business Impact: Ask the executive: "What is the cost to the business if you do not act? What is the gain to the business if you do?"
6. Target Date: Set a Target Date for each action.
If you would like a copy of Break-Through Consulting´s proprietary Action Plan, please email me at the address below.
Check back in 2 weeks for Step FOUR: Impact!
Merry Marcus
www.breakthroughconsulting.com
As always, feel free to drop me a line at mmarcus@breakthroughconsulting.com, or submit a question to my twice-monthly Hr.com column - Ask The Coach. Twice a month I will answer your questions about your toughest leadership and career issues. To submit a question to Ask The Coach, click here.
