The Pilot's Lesson: How Small Deviations Lead to Big Changes

Imagine you're piloting an airplane from Los Angeles to New York City. If you set your course just 1 degree off target, you won't notice much difference in the first few miles. However, over the course of the cross-country flight, that small deviation will magnify. By the time you reach the East Coast, instead of landing in New York City, you might find yourself in Washington, D.C., or even further off course. That's a difference of hundreds of miles caused by just a 1% / degree error.

I share this story to highlight, even small deviations or omissions from your routine, when compounded over time, can lead to significant differences in outcomes.

In this edition of, "Engineering 365", let's explore a strategy to help you stay on course during the year.

Bi-annually, I have a special routine that I want to share with you. I sit down at my desk with a fresh notebook and pen in hand. Then, I just start writing.

It’s a letter to myself - filled with goals, aspirations, and a renewed sense of determination. I think not only about the?goals?I have but the questions I need to ask myself to make those goals a reality.

Here are some of the questions I (and frankly, every leader) ask myself:???

1. What are my top priorities for this year??

It's important to have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve in the coming year, and to prioritize those goals accordingly. Consider what you want to accomplish for your team, your organization, and your personal development.

2. How can I ensure that my team is aligned with my goals??

It's not enough to have your own goals in mind – it's important to ensure that your team is on board as well. Take the time to communicate your goals to your team and make sure everyone is aligned and working towards a common objective.

3. What resources do I need to achieve my goals??

Have you ever read the book, “Who Not How” By Dan Sullivan?

If not – do yourself a favor and add it to the top of your reading list. It helped me with reframing the narrative of “So, how am I going to get all of this done?” to “WHO in my network already possesses this skill and how can I get them to assist me?”.

Whether it's additional budget, new hires, or training, it's important to identify the resources you need or already possess to achieve your goals. Plan to acquire these resources and allocate them wisely.

4. How can I foster a positive, inclusive culture??

A positive and inclusive culture is essential for the success of any organization. Take the time to assess your current culture and identify areas for improvement. Consider implementing employee engagement initiatives, diversity and inclusion programs, and other efforts to create a more positive work environment.

5. How can I stay up to date on industry trends and best practices??

As a leader, it's important to stay on top of industry trends and best practices. Make a plan to continually educate yourself and your team on the latest developments in your field. This could include attending conferences, participating in professional development courses, or simply staying up to date on industry news. You’ve taken an important step in staying up to date by subscribing to this newsletter!

As you take on the second half of this year, remember to stay focused and keep pushing forward. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow and learn, and every setback is simply a chance to come back stronger. Remember: no matter how tough things get; you are always capable of rising to the occasion. I hope these questions inspire you and provides a different perspective to your existing process.

So How Can We Help You...

When you’re ready to grow and expand your Engineering and Manufacturing Leadership Teams, here are 3 ways that we can help:

1.?????We partner with your existing talent acquisition teams to help attract and retain Engineers and the frontline leaders that drive productivity.

2.?????Reduce the cost of acquiring and training new hires by supporting and enhancing the efforts of your onboarding team for the first 90 days.

3.?????Provide a no-cost assessment of your hiring strategies with a?15-minute consultation.