Comments

Or maybe even simply replying to an email is a good way of 'showing up'

Posted by Trevor Gay at June 18, 2008 5:17 PM

Brilliant Tom! Totally agree. I wouldn't recommend “Never say No” attitude but then give it your best shot!!! I always believe in “DOING YOUR HOMEWORK” because, if you don’t, IT SHOWS and when it shows IT STINKS!!! It’s always good to fail honorably than miserably.

Posted by Sriram Kannan at June 19, 2008 4:30 AM

Tom –

This one I love, although it’s tough to catch yourself. We’ve invented all sorts of sophisticated ways to say no or divert requests for help. It’s helped me to put myself in the sender’s shoes and try to imagine what my own reaction would be to my answer. When it’s “yeah right, what a bunch of crap, thanks for your help”, I reconsider my answer.

Posted by Dan McCarthy at June 21, 2008 8:40 AM

"Showing Up" is foundational for success.

I'm not sure that I agree with the email example, though.

I'd add these caveats:

1. Delete and say you'll do it...IF IT ADDS VALUE. (Value to the other person, value to the relationship, value to the product or service, value to the customer, or value to you and your personal brand.) If it doesn't, don't do it. Or transform it to something that does add value.

2. What about those emerging leaders that you're developing? Sure you might be able to do it yourself more easily and quickly, but how much more would it mean to provide a development, growth, and coaching opportunity for other emerging leaders?

3. If it's not "Wow", then why say "yes"?

Manoj

Posted by Manoj Pawar at June 21, 2008 12:37 PM

Will you still recommend doing the thing when it falls outside of your knowledge circle, or you don't have the skillset or toolset to do it.

In opinion do it but with excellence.

Posted by Sibghat at July 2, 2008 3:19 PM