Tell me about when you set a clear direction for others to follow.
"AI was in charge of performing inventory at the coffee shop after we closed up at 3 pm. We had three hours to complete our task. I had three other co-workers who were part of my team. I created detailed and intuitive spreadsheets for the project. The three co-workers weren't that invested in their work. They were in it for the overtime. Knowing this, I wanted to make sure everyone was on the same page. So before inventory, I passed out copies of this spreadsheet and explained the method I'd developed for this task. I explained how this would impact the success of the cafe, how it personally impacted the owner, and the success to maintain this business. I also broke it down to an individual level and ensured we were performing the best, most accurate count on the first round which could eliminate the potential caveat of having to do a recount. This motivated everyone to do a good job, and as a result, things moved much faster than anticipated and we finished early. Our results were well within range."
Telling someone to do something, without explaining why, without defining the endgame, will result in confused messaging, resulting in a lower standard of work, and increasing rework and project costs.
Explaining to the entire team the course direction from the onset, detailing every part which each team member is responsible for, and the stakes involved brings every team member into the fold. This motivates your team by providing them with an investment in the joint success of the team effort. In the end, this provides each member with a feeling of pride in the work they'll deliver.
Setting clear goals, deadlines, and expectations for each person's part demonstrates effective leadership. It eliminates speculation and the kind of dissent which stems from a lack of trust. Therefore, clear and decisive communication is integral to effective leadership.
Break down your approach and leadership style for them, organically aligning your core values with theirs. Demonstrate that you lead by example, delivering effective and clear communication at every turn. Detail the methods you use to motivate those on your team.
Truly understanding what your core values are can assist you in aligning your philosophy with Accenture's. In addition to coming up with a five-year career plan, meditate on who you are as a person, establish your own core values, and define the traits to your personality that others respond most positively to. If you feel people often respond to your honesty, or your propensity towards embracing people from all walks of life, then integrity and diversity inclusion are two of your core values.
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