Why empowering people is a load of sh*t

Empowering people is a load of sh*t and I’m sick of that phrase. I think it’s rubbish.

Yet It is a critical problem faced by those in leadership roles today. People will not be empowered, unless the environment exists to do so. To be able to truly “empower people”, a safe environment must be created.

This safe environment allows:

• Experimenting, risk taking and mistake making, rather than blaming;

• Teaching and coaching rather than punishment;

• Frank conversations rather that political correctness or “yes people”;

• Handling the truth – even when it is uncomfortable.

Creating a safe atmosphere or environment that allows and gives permission to our employees and staff to do good work,  make mistakes and use these as learning and feel valued does wonders.

In all my Defence and civilian roles, I have attempted to create a safe environment to truly have all my staff feel that they could make their contributions and are thanked for their efforts. This meant they also felt comfortable coming to me with any issues or roadblocks.

To do this, I had to set a consistent example in word and action – and a bit of humour never went astray.

Ultimately, people want to work in an environment/atmosphere where they can do good work, contribute, feel regarded and want to go to work rather than have to go to work.

 The Leadership Lesson:

Stop empowering people. Use your personal example to create a safe environment instead.  Watch your team respond. You will be amazed. Because everybody is watching you.

Philip Wagner is a contrarian leadership educator and practitioner, serving Army Officer and developer of Leader IQ. - He can be contacted at phil@philipwagner.com.au or 0419 001 911