Set Expectations Up Front
Your role has changed. You are now a leader. You might be the same person but how you approach your job has changed dramatically.
The biggest mistake you can make is to just let things happen around you. Now you have to make things happen and that means taking charge of the situation. This is the biggest difference when you are handed a managers role.
People will now look to you for direction and support and you need to be quick to set the agenda. This is why the setting of expectations up front, is absolutely critical.
We often refer to the Setting of Expectations as the Managers First Discipline. In other words before you do anything make sure your team knows exactly what you expect from them AND what they can expect from you.
Explain clearly and concisely what is expected and then describe just as clearly:
1. The benefits of meeting that expectation.
2. The consequences of failing to meet that expectation.
When clear and concise expectations are not established up front it can quickly create a situation that is not only impossible to manage effectively but extremely difficult to retrieve at a later time.
Expectations for What
You can set expectations across a diverse range of areas but mostly they will fall into four areas:
1. Expectations on a certain level of performance or result.
2. Expectations of a certain level of skill or ability (that will deliver the result).
3. Expectations on behaviour (This is the one we think is done most poorly).
4. What the Team can expect from you.
5 Steps to Setting Expectations
Step 1:
Prepare well. Know exactly what you are going to say.
Step 2:
Before you address the team get some feedback on what you are going to say. This can come from your boss, a mentor and if possible consult a few senior members of your team.
Step 3:
Keep things simple and direct. Be black and white, there is no room for grey.
Step 4:
Be clear on the benefits of meeting expectations and the consequences of failing to meet them.
Step 5:
Confirm that people know and understand.
Key Leadership Points
1. You will note the use of the word SET expectations. The implication here is that they are not for consultation, discussion or debate they are SET…like concrete. As we said earlier you might want to consult with team members or your peers first about your expectations, but once you decide don’t deviate.
2. Note also the use of the words UP FRONT. In other words…before we start. Before we start this job… before we start this project… before we begin as a team…let’s set expectations.
3. Finally expect resistance. Don’t expect everyone to fall into line immediately. As Colin Powell famously said, “Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off.” That goes with the territory, don’t be discouraged just do what you think is right.
The Setting of Expectations is a first step. Maintaining those standards is a far greater challenge.
Mark Bragg & Martin West
