We make commitments every day…to our employer, our colleagues, our friends, our family, and even ourselves. We also expect others to keep their commitments to us. The definition of a commitment is a promise or agreement to do something. It is the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, activity, etc.
Ask yourself which “Commitment Camp” do you belong to?
- Camp A – Do everything possible, remove any and all obstacles in order to keep your commitments
- Camp B – Make the commitment unless something better comes along
- Camp C – Smile, nod, agree, and do whatever you were going to do anyway
When others don’t keep their commitments, it erodes trust and creates disappointment and conflict which impacts future relationships. And we certainly don’t want to develop the reputation of someone who doesn’t keep their commitments.
Here are four tips for strengthening commitments:
- Focus on Clarity: This is the who, what, when, where, and why of the decision or commitment. Sometimes there is a misunderstanding because one of the “W’s” was missing. Twice I’ve gone to the wrong Starbucks for meetings that resulted in a delayed start and frustration. There is a whole heck of a lot of Starbucks, which location is an important part of the plan!
- Identify Obstacles: Ask “do you see any obstacles or issues that would prevent us from achieving this commitment?” Someone may have a key fact about a potential obstacle but are reluctant to disagree with an enthusiastic group or may be too shy to speak up. It is critical to establish a listening, safe environment because people are more likely to commit to a decision when their ideas have been part of the debate. You don’t want anyone to be in Camp C!
- Document Commitments: End discussions with a clear and specific resolutions and calls to action. Ask for commitment that the plan will work and that everyone is in Camp A. Document in places such as meeting minutes, procedure plans, an email, etc.
- Create Commitment Checkpoints: If it’s a long-term commitment, establish built-in check point milestones to see if any situations have changed (resources, priorities etc.) that would cause a change in the commitment decision. By focusing on execution and following up on commitments it will avoid Camp B situations where someone might say “oh…are we still doing that?”
Are you interested in learning more about commitment and accountability? Go to http://managementskillsinc.com/products/five-behaviors/ We would enjoy partnering with you in 2022 to accomplish your training goals. Contact Deborah.Avrin@ManagementSkillsInc.com.
Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season!