Use the "A" Word

There are certain words we cautiously avoid uttering. Sometimes, it's to prevent an unwanted reaction. For instance, my wife, Jamie, and I spell out the word W-A-L-K around our dog, knowing that if we vocalize it, he will leap up and dart toward the door. Then, there are words that we dare not even spell, referring to them merely by the first letter. These are ones that can be especially offensive or distressing. Among many teams and organizations, there exists such a word: Accountability. Or, as we may discreetly refer to it, the "A Word."

Why the reluctance to use this word? Because it's often framed in a negative context. People might say, "Accountability just means I did something wrong," or "I wish my leader would practice accountability with that person." This negative association exists because we often perceive being accountable as something undesirable. But why is that?

The answer lies in how leaders approach the concept. If you explore the origins of the word accountable, you'll discover that the Latin root translates to 'to count.' There is nothing inherently wrong with tallying up the results. They simply reflect reality. Sometimes we may not be thrilled with the numbers because we had hoped for something better. Other times, we might be elated by the results because they surpassed our expectations.

What tends to turn the seemingly benign action of counting into a problem is how people interpret and react to the numbers. Instead of using them as objective data for growth and improvement, they often wield the numbers as a weapon, criticizing and blaming others. This negative approach tarnishes the concept of accountability, transforming it from a tool for reflection and progress into something to fear.

But accountability doesn't have to be a forbidden word. You can reclaim it as a positive force that fosters responsibility, empowers team members, and drives excellence. It's up to you to redefine and model accountability, not as an accusation or a burden, but as an essential element in building trust, encouraging growth, and achieving shared goals. By shifting your mindset, you can bring the "A Word" out of the shadows and integrate it positively into your team.

Here are three steps to get started:

1.????Emphasize Transparency and Objectivity

Start by making the accountability process transparent and focused on growth. Share the criteria for success openly with the team, ensuring everyone understands the expectations and how their performance will be evaluated. This clarity removes the mystery and fear surrounding the "A Word," transforming it into an opportunity for collaboration and alignment with shared goals.

2.????Foster a Culture of Continuous Improvement

Encourage team members to view accountability as a tool for personal and professional development rather than as a means of punishment. Celebrate achievements, acknowledge efforts, and provide constructive feedback for growth. The process is about learning, adapting, and moving forward together rather than focusing solely on what went wrong.

3.????Build Trust through Consistency

Implementing accountability consistently and fairly across the team builds trust and shows that it's an integral part of the team's culture rather than a selective weapon. Practice what you preach by holding yourself accountable and openly reflecting on your successes and areas for improvement. By doing this, you'll lead by example, demonstrating that accountability is a shared responsibility that empowers everyone to strive for excellence.

Consider These Questions

• How have you previously approached the concept of accountability within your team, and what has been the reaction?
• In what ways can you make the process of accountability more transparent and growth-focused in your team or organization?
• How can you foster a culture that sees accountability as a positive tool for development rather than a punitive measure?

Two Ways to Better Use the "A" Word

1. Become a Leddin Group Certified Guide. Bring the content and system that actually works to your team and clients. Learn more at https://www.leddingroup.com/guide
2. Invite me to present The 5 Practices of Impactful Leaders to your team. The keynote will motivate, inspire, and encourage your leaders to effectively use the "A" word. Reach out to my speaking agents,?Michele Lucia?and?Canesha Appleton.

Make it a great day!

Patrick

#leadership #success #accountability #culture