Are You Ready to Be Called Upon?

Last week I was given the job for the day as CLHO (Chief Library Helping Officer) at my daughter’s school. After completely screwing up scanning books in and out of the “system,” and getting countless dirty looks from the Mrs. Crabapple, I settled into my chair. Mrs. Crabapple grabbed a book, told the kids to circle around and began reading. After each page she would ask the children a question about the page, and each time every child raised their hand to answer the question. But a funny thing would happen when Mrs. C. would point to a child to answer the question. Only about half the time were the kids ready with the answer. The other times the kid called would just stare blankly ahead, surprised he or she was picked, and then wait until another kid jumped in.

I began thinking how this relates to us in business. How many times do we raise our hands, put our name in the hat for a new position and seek more responsibility, but when the time comes to step up, aren’t prepared to answer the call? 

This week, think about your value to your organization. Are you ready for the next step? Are you waiting for somebody to call your name? If so, you need to prepare now, so when you are called on, there is no blank stare, no hesitation, and no sign that you aren’t ready with the answer. And here is the answer you will deliver:

• Attitude and enthusiasm that shows you have the energy to lead
• Open-mind to innovative ideas
• Ability to think creatively
• More knowledge than anybody in your department
• Repeatable skills that show you can be a consistent performer
• Hunger to be the most valuable asset to your organization

Spend at least 60 minutes each week through the end of the year working on these qualities and skills. And when CEO Crabtree is in need of a leader, you will be the first to raise your hand, the first to answer, and the first to perform at the highest level.