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Over the last several weeks, I have heard frequently the term topography voiced to describe situations. Words that were used along with topography in the conversations, speeches or documents to convey a visual about the severity of the situation included terrain, rugged, mountainous, unsurpassable, irregular, complex, dangerous, untouched, uncharted, steep, uneven and more. I have used frequently the term topography in my health care work in rural areas to describe the adverse effect that topography has on a resident's timely access to health care and other needed human services.
In the leadership domain it is critical that the leader upon entry to a place be mindful of the physical topography and the mental topography as well. Leader preparation in advance of appearances or presentations to address the topography of the audience Is essential to overcome the negatives associated with an existing matter or an emerging one anticipated for the future. Managing or reducing the significance of the topography is a first step in order to experience any positive outcome from an otherwise negative situation.
Below are a few more steps that you may wish to consider to assure that you have stronger footing in navigating the topography of leadership:
1) Reframe your strategy to address challenges and opportunities
faced to help make headway in uncharted territory
2) Learn as much as possible about the past actions and behaviors
of the targeted audience impacted or to be impacted by your guidance and advice
3) Assess and adjust your own leadership qualities and competencies
as a means of insuring that you are in the strongest position possible to respond to ordinary, extraordinary and complex situations
4) Understand the value of problem-solving
as it represents an enabler for growth and opportunity . Connecting the dots and mapping-out a realistic plan of action are cornerstones of effective leaders
5) Stay focused and aware of forces in your landscape
that impede or accelerate progress in responding to matters in your space as a leader
6) Make it habit to the right thing for others
and find ways to make positives from negative situations. Creating a culture of caring has a big payoff for the leader and his/her beneficiaries as well.
If you have interest in responding to the factors that impact the topography of your leadership and that of your team, connect with Marilyn West today at 804.782.1938 or consulting@mhwest.com.
THE FIRST M4 TELEPHONE CONNECT WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 17 - 2 PM.
THE TELEPHONE NUMBER AND PASS CODE ARE: 1.712.775.7031 AND 872839#
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