Rock Habits Series: Assigning Accountability for Goals
Why Getting Everyone Accountable is a Game Changer in Business
Transforming how your business runs is all about motivating each person in your team to own their part in achieving your company’s goals. This is what Rockefeller Habit #4 is all about: “Every facet of the organization has a person assigned with accountability for ensuring goals are met.” Sounds straightforward, right? But trust me, it’s a total game changer.
Accountability: More Than Just a Buzzword
So, why is this habit such a big deal? When everyone knows exactly what they’re responsible for, things get done more efficiently. It’s like having a well-oiled machine where every part knows its job. This isn’t just me talking – big names in business, like Verne Harnish in his book “Scaling Up,” have been preaching this for ages. He says that for a business to grow and not just stay afloat, everyone needs to be clear on their role.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Take Best Buy, for example. Under Hubert Joly’s leadership, they turned the company around by making sure everyone was on the same page and accountable for their part. This alignment was partly achieved through clear accountability, ensuring that each team member understood and was responsible for their contribution to the company’s goals. It’s in his book “The Heart of Business” – a must-read if you’re into business comebacks.
Straight From the Experts’ Mouths
And it’s not just about big companies. This stuff matters no matter the size of your business. Here are some nuggets of wisdom from the pros:
- “A team is a group of people that trust each other.” That’s from Natalie Dawson’s book “Teamwork: How to Build a High-Performance Team.” She’s spot on – accountability builds that trust.
- Robert I. Sutton, in “Scaling Up Excellence,” says it’s all about spreading the good stuff across the company. And how do you do that? By making sure everyone knows their role and nails it.
Why This Habit “Rocks” for Alignment and Scaling
Accountability isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for your business to grow and stay aligned. It makes sure that:
- Everyone’s clear on their job: No more “I thought someone else was doing it.”
- People step up: When they know it’s on them, they’re more likely to bring their A-game.
- You get the real talk: Open conversations about what’s working and what’s not.
- Learning from the lows: When things don’t go as planned, it’s a chance to get better, not to play the blame game.
Wrapping It Up
Bottom line? Rock Habit #4 – getting each person accountable – is a real powerhouse move for your business. It’s about clarity, commitment, and, ultimately, about getting those wins. Whether you’re running a startup or a big company, this is one habit you’ll want to get right.
