Lip Service

A senior colleague from the past used to hang up the call and say to me 'Anil we need a plan B, this guy on the call is providing only a 'Lip Service'. I used to wonder why people do that, I still keep wondering about it after 20 long years. I think that the Lip Service is undeniably a quick winner. For those who enjoy the quick wins end up mastering this art, usually end up mastering the mistake.

People who have mastered that mistake (art ), it's really hard to change them. Only way to get actual things done is either by micro-management or find someone who is really capable and committed to deliver.

I have tried to articulate what is a Lip Service and what is a Commitment to Service in the following picture.

When I asked a friend to read this blog, he observed that often those who do singing and dancing end up getting credits. Watch out, that will set a dangerous trend, that will certainly encourage others to acclimatize to the Lip Service practice. Lip Service practice is one of the biggest reasons for leadership letdowns, it's a deception.

How to save yourself from this deception?

• Don't rush into hiring.
• Real-time KPI monitoring will help in a big way
• Ensure real-time feedback, however rude it may sound, you will be doing a favor.
• Ensure no repeat of mistakes, if there are then your feedback is ignored, act on it.
• Appreciate 'Real Performances' and not the 'Lip Service'.

Cheers !!!

Anil