— To follow is a bullet of wisdom on leadership. It comes from Tom’s rifle, named Shot, who has seen it all. You’ll get the drift by clicking Blog in the menu at www.tomnewhouse.com. —
SOUNDS LIKE COMMITMENTS. Should, at least. Oh, I have heard empty promises, and I have stared long and hard at gaps between expectations and reality. We rifles give a person one break, and then after another missed commitment, we know that we are working with a blowhard, and we won’t be winning for losing.
Knock it off! Yes, leadership is not about making promises you only sometimes keep. Do whatever it takes! Find a way! If in doubt up front, under-promise (promise a little less—time, cost, quality, etc.); then over-deliver (produce more than you committed). With that strategy, as with keeping your word, you’ll feel better, your team will feel great, and your customers will be back.