On the Ledge

Reviews of all kinds are stressful for everyone involved. It stresses the team that gets reviewed and it also stresses the reviewer ?? Don’t believe me ?

Follow me for the next few seconds.

It works up on the team that reports out and presents their work, for they clearly know their work output is getting assessed , they have to be prepared to take in some spot feedback, they also have to make sure all their bases are well covered before the review.

It does stress the reviewer too, since their “superior” knowledge will now get tested. You see they must be seen as if they are sitting on the ledge and viewing the dance on the floor. It is a compulsive need for every reviewer. They want to feel like an Eagle sitting on the ledge because in belief that is an important trait of a leader

Well to be honest, when I began my leadership journey, I too followed the code book. That I had to act and behave in a manner that makes me seen on a ledge. Over time I realized my team members are far more intelligent, more aware, and even more sensible than me. Simply because they meet where the rubber meets the road, while I am still happily placed on the ledge.

And so am experimenting now, with some amazing results. If you have some neat tips, feel free to share them here.

1.    I make it a purpose to listen fully to the person who presents, earlier on my purpose was to ask questions. This is a big deflection, which has immensely supported me. In listening I found a newfound respect for a colleague who is putting their full potential into a project

2.    I make it a purpose to be curious and ask a lot of “Why “questions. I have realized it not only clarifies to me, but also brings in clarity among the team and the purpose gets further cemented among all of us. I have observed that it hugely increases the commitment around the room

3.    I make it a purpose to seek feedback and suggestions around the room, for I have realized I am the dumbest in a room full of smart people . Again, you ask why? Because I am not on the dance floor and am viewing it from the Ledge. I see only the pattern; they can see the dots.

4.    I make it my will to recognize people who are contributing and allow others to recognize each other.

I am hoping all these are helping the reviews I am involved in to be less stressful. Not sure if this will resonate with my team though??

I am still working on my purpose to be on the ledge that is offered to me.