Respect your people’s time. When meeting a customer, we arrive fifteen minutes early to avoid any mishaps. We are diligent about keeping personal appointments and call ahead if we are running a few minutes late. However, we often fail to extend the same courtesy when meeting with our employees…and we allow ourselves to believe that our people understand because they can appreciate the demands on our time.
Time is one of the most valuable commodities our people can give us. Time scheduled with a senior leader is the one they prepare for and anticipate the most. When we, as leaders, show up late for meetings or cancel at the last minute, we are telling our people that something else or someone else is more important than them. In time, these actions erode trust and confidence in the leader…at best. At worst, our people begin to question their own value.
If your people and colleagues are truly your company’s most important asset, then treat them as such. Respect their gift of time and give them the attention they deserve. Remember, one exceptional meeting beats two mediocre ones every time.
Be intentional about it…
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