Did you know that a whopping 60-70% of employees feel that leaders are not clear with their expectations? That’s more than half of the workforce saying they feel lost in their roles. Concerning statistics for leaders, isn’t it? Join us in this informative episode as we explore the reasons many leaders hesitate to clearly outline and guide performance, teams, and organizational processes. As we continue our series on the prevalent issue of Accountability Dysfunction, we aim to understand how our fears and fixed beliefs can prevent us from setting clear expectations. 

We discuss how the belief that accountability is a one-time confrontation gets in the way of accountability. With this mindset, leaders are so busy avoiding uncomfortable confrontation that they abdicate their responsibility to give corrective feedback. It is also seen as something that people either have or they do not have. These beliefs result in leaders feeling too powerless to lead. We provide insight into the reality of accountability as an ongoing, proactive approach essential to every phase of a task or project. 

We will investigate how a combination of internal and external pressures, a fear of confrontation, and a desire to maintain good relationships can often deter us from fulfilling our leadership duties. That can be tough for any seasoned leader, let alone folks transitioning from being an individual contributor into a leadership position. 

This episode promises to be highly relevant for leaders looking to understand and navigate the complexities of leadership and accountability in today’s organizational environment. Don’t miss your chance to become the leader your team deserves. Remember, true leadership begins with self-accountability. 

If you want to know more about leading effectively, check out our book, “So, You Think You Can Lead?”: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07QMVKNSV/  

Sign up for our newsletters: https://bit.ly/dismantlingdysfunction 

IN THIS EPISODE:  

• [01:19] Episode Introduction  
• [11:58] Fears Surrounding Accountability
• [15:13] Lack of Leadership Training 
• [26:30] Episode Gem 
• [31:03] Episode Wrap Up 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:  

• Most leaders mistakenly perceive accountability as a confrontational, one-time corrective action rather than an ongoing responsibility. These leaders dread holding others accountable, fearing it will make them appear mean or unsupportive.

   

• Setting clear expectations and directions might be seen as laying the groundwork for potential disagreements or disputes. The apprehension isn’t just about appearing strict or autocratic; it’s the emotional and psychological toll that confrontations can take.

   

• Leadership is as much about interpersonal skills as it is about strategic oversight. Not every leader has been trained in dealing with resistance, effective communication, and non-defensive communication skills. Without adequate training, leaders might feel ill-equipped to effectively define expectations or guide their teams.

   

• Whether you’re a seasoned leader, a new manager, or just curious about what’s been tearing organizations apart, join us in this thrilling Accountability series on the Dismantling Dysfunction Podcast, as we pull back the curtain on what’s really going on. Remember, if you need help dealing with dysfunctions at work or in your personal life, reach out to us. 

Did you enjoy this episode?

If so, sign up for our newsletter and get exclusive access to some of our best content!

Plus, we’ll keep you in the loop – you’ll be among the first to know when we’ve hit “upload” on a new podcast, article, or YouTube video!