Steven Spielberg's Advice on Being a More Effective Leader or Manager

Do you struggle telling other people what to do??

As a team leader or manager, it can sometimes be difficult to tell your co-workers (and your friends) what to do.?

But I heard a great story about Steven Spielberg the other day that might help you do a better job directing others.?

Apparently, Spielberg was at a party in Hollywood. He was approached by a young director who said he was having difficulty with some of his team members.?

The young director said that the lighting director was very opinionated as was the director of photography.?

They all had strong opinions that contracted the young director's vision for the film.?

The director asked Spielberg how he should handle these opinionated members of his production team.?

Spielberg said, "That's an easy one. Your job title is Director. People expect you to give them direction. So go do it!"?

The next day, the young director walked onto the set.?

Then he said, "I understand your ideas, but we're going to do it differently. Here's what I want the lighting to be like and here's what I want the photography to be like."

Each person looked at him and then said, "Okay. Understood. Thanks." and?then walked off and executed his direction.?

Bottom Line: It's important to listen to your employees and consider their points of view. But at the end, your employees want you to make the final decision with authority and confidence.?

About the Author: Jamie Turner is an internationally recognized author, professor, consultant, and speaker who has helped employees at The Coca-Cola Company, Holiday Inn, Microsoft, Verizon and others do a better job leading, managing, and mentoring others. To have him speak at your event or organization, email him at: [email protected]