Dead Leader Walking

Seven Ways to Improve Your Execution





Of course, I am speaking of a leader's ability to execute plans, ideas, and all around make things happen. Great ideas are everywhere. In the world of Coulda-Woulda-Shoulda, stories of great ideas not acted on are abundant. Great leaders don't live in that world, because great leaders take action. As a leader, you are only as good as your execution. These tips will provide you with techniques for improving your execution.







1. Do it Now!: Just get it over with now. Execution can often be broken down into small steps. Some steps are so small you can knock them out in a matter of minutes or seconds. If you can get started on it now, do it. You never know what will come up later and get in the way.







2. Refuse to Do it: Why play games? Just say no. A great way to improve your execution is to avoid adding needless tasks. You may want to be nice and say yes, but think about the consequences. Every new task you accept gets in the way of your current higher priority plans. If the new opportunity does not support your long-term vision and focus, say no.









3. Write it Down: If you agree to it, write it down. You have a full plate. So does every other leader out there. Don't let being busy become an excuse for not remembering. It feels good to respond to a request with, "Sure, I can do that." HOWEVER, the good feeling will quickly be replaced with shame if you eventually say, "Oh man, I completely forgot." Write it down, then execute.







4. Pass the Buck: Share the fun, delegate often. Build the ability to execute in the people around you. When they get things done, it improves your ability to get things done. Alone, you may be able to execute on many great ideas. With a team of people executing, the possibilities are almost endless. You win when you delegate. Your team wins too - isn't that what leadership is all about? Build your team's capacity to execute and then, trust them.









5. Do it Anyway: No matter what comes up, do it. You do not have exclusive ownership on being busy. Every leader is busy. Yet, great leaders overcome the challenges that trip up lesser individuals. The reason for their success is they decide to do it anyway. There are always reasons and excuses. Great leaders choose not to accept any reason or excuse (even good ones) as justification for not executing.







6. Do What You Say: No more, no less. Perfection can get in the way of execution. Although it doesn't make sense, good is often the better option compared to perfection. You only have so much time to do many things. If you say you will complete a project in 7 days, doing it in 3 days may not be worth the extra effort. Sure, beating your estimate by a couple days will make you look good, but beating it by 4 days may only force you to slow down effectiveness in other areas. Deliver on time, on quality, but be wise about the cost of going above and beyond.





7. Shine or Whine: Tell people. When people know about our plans, we are more likely to follow through. It is embarrassing to say we are going to do something and then we don't. Therefore, we may decide to keep our big plans to ourselves if possible. After all, what if we don't do it - everyone will know. Take the chance. Shine or whine! Start looking at sharing your plans as an opportunity to shine. If you find yourself whining more than shining, re-read the other six tips!









Reading books, articles, and newsletters are a great way to support your growth as a leader. HOWEVER, execution is why you do it. Knowledge is not the greatest power. The real power comes from consistent action on knowledge. Now get back to executing!