When I worked at General Motors, I had a boss who referred to this as "Management By Walking Around". He made the time to walk around the production floor and talk to the employees.

If you really want to know what is going on in your organization, talk to the person doing the actual work. Ask them about their job, the good, the bad and, yes, the ugly. Ask them what you can do to make the job better. Don't squeal to their boss. It creates trust.

Too often, particularly if we have been in a position of leadership for many years, we forget this concept and take our advice from those around us who are, most likely, at a similar level in the organization. We have become way to busy to spend any meaningful time with the troops.

Whether you are in a position of leadership, whether it be business, government, or your local homeowners association, don't forget the people where the real action is. Pay attention to them, their views, and recommendations. Ask probing questions. It is amazing what you will learn and how much easier your job will be.

Have a great week,

Jim