We’ve all met leaders who can create an inspired vision for the future of their organizations. Many are charismatic leaders who can inspire others and brilliantly paint a mental picture of how the future will look and feel. The big question is can they make the vision a reality? The answer is execution, which makes the inspirational vision actionable.
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“Vision without execution is hallucination.” |
Execution is more than a process, it’s the insight and passion that an effective leader can contribute. Leaders don’t necessary need to create the execution plan themselves, but they should always create an environment that leads to more effective execution. Here are a few areas where a leader can make an impact on execution:
Ensure People Have Enough Structure – Part of a leader’s job is to ensure that people have what they need to do their work effectively. For many people, not having a well-defined structure for execution will make them nervous. It is important to involve others in the planning process to gain their buy-in and tap into their technical knowledge. Well thought out plans will include problem solving to eliminate barriers to successful implementation.
Have an Infectious Drive – Leaders set an example on execution momentum by instilling a sense of the possible. It is easy for inertia to set in where actions focus on maintaining the status quo rather than the behavior changes required for the new vision. After the initial introduction of the vision, it is important to get things started immediately by creating a sense of urgency and obtaining commitment to specific deadlines. Leaders can create a culture with a focus on results that propels the development of concrete strategies.
Stay Plugged Into the Process – Leaders keep their fingers on the pulse of the organization making sure their vision retains the required momentum through execution. By keeping up to date, milestones can be celebrated and corrections can be made if things are off track. Leaders must be willing to praise and also address problems respectively and quickly to retain momentum.
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“Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.” |
It takes committed leadership to translate vision into reality. Leaders champion execution by having strategies, committed people, and a results oriented culture in place.
Management Skills Resource, Inc. is pleased to offer Work of Leaders and other leadership workshops to develop the leaders in your organization to turn vision into reality. To discuss your plans, contact us at info@ManagementSkillsInc.com or call 972 881-5282.