The Year 2000 called and they want their leadership style back 🤣
If you are struggling to move forward here's the secret - learn how to Start, Stop, Continue!
Evaluating Your Leadership Journey: The Start, Stop, Continue Method
In 1996, I attended a meeting with my new regional manager. I was anticipating the typical meeting where they focus on their leadership, their previous region - what they did right, and what led them to our market.
Moreover, I thought he would begin to highlight all the areas where we missed the mark. Well, I got the first part right, he did discuss his journey, which I found extremely relevant to where we were as a region.
But then he did something, that I never saw before.
He conducted a Start, Stop, and Continue Session.
At the time, I was only three years removed from the military. So I still had a command and control leadership mindset. Our (military) strategy sessions were crafted by the general and we executed that strategy, with no time for legislation or consensus.
So this type of meeting was new to me.
If you are unfamiliar, a start, stop continue analysis is when a team evaluates itself by answering three questions:
What are we not doing that we should start doing?
What have we been doing that we might stop doing?
What are we doing right, and can continue doing?
As a result of this meeting, I began implementing this process into all of my quarterly meetings throughout my career. It’s a great way to help your team hone in on the areas they need to improve.
Guess what? You need to do this for yourself as well. If you read my previous newsletter, you’ll realize that I’m not anti-goals, I’m pro-process. As leaders, the end goal is NOT the goal.
What you learn from the process is exponentially more valuable.
In your current role, you will find yourself making some massive decisions that guide your teams through the ebb and flow of the industry. Yet, how often do you pause and evaluate your leadership journey?
The "Start, Stop, Continue" framework is a reflective exercise. To help you out, here is a series of introspective questions to jumpstart the exercise. Let me know if you come up with any new questions.
Start - Embrace New Beginnings!
Innovate or Die!
What new strategies or technologies have you resisted that could revolutionize your leadership performance? (Remember the performance review process is around the corner. Are you prepared for that conversation?)
Approachability is the difference between being informed versus finding out.
What strategies can I employ to become more approachable and relatable to my team?
How can I use storytelling or personal experiences to connect more deeply with others?
“Fitting in is a short-term strategy that gets you nowhere. Standing out is a long-term strategy that takes guts and produces results.”(Seth Godin)
What unique problem does your leadership style and experience solve?
Are there any fears that are holding you back from being the best version of your “leadership self?”
How can I leverage social media or digital platforms to enhance my visibility and influence?
Growth is optional change is inevitable!
What skill or area of knowledge have you neglected that could enhance your leadership?
Is there a mentor or a community you could start engaging with?
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Stop doing everything, and focus on the right things!
2001 called and they want their leadership style back 🤣
Stop the outdated leadership practices.
What traditional leadership behaviors no longer serve you as a leader? Name at least two, right now!
Are there any outdated mindsets or strategies that you need to stop to make way for innovation?
Reflect on your management style. Are there areas where you could be over-managing, thus stifling your team's creativity and independence?
Stop drifting as a leader, get focused, and stay on track!
“Why do I want that?” — Dig down below your initial answers to discover what is fundamentally important to you
What do I want to do? — not What should I do?
What do I truly desire? — not What do I want to move away from?
What am I willing to stand for and defend with everything I have?
What do I want to be known for?
How do I want to feel about myself?
What do I want from my relationships?
It’s ok to be a little selfish, don’t neglect your self-care
In the pursuit of professional excellence, have you been neglecting your well-being?
What unhealthy habits should you stop to ensure you remain a resilient leader?
When was the last time your exercised? You need endurance for the leadership road ahead. (I selfishly added this one as a reminder for me 😉)
Continue these and see how you grow in 2024!
Build a personal brand worth following.
Which personal branding efforts have been most effective, and how can I amplify them? (If you don’t know what your personal brand is, then put this one in the start section)
How can I continue using my unique leadership style to inspire innovation and creativity?
Strong relationships are your foundation, keep them strong.
Leverage what has helped you build strong, approachable relationships with my team. (Don’t take this skill for granted)
How can I continue to use these techniques to foster greater loyalty and stand out in the industry?
Keep learning - A shark will die if it stops moving. Be a shark!
How can I continue to learn and adapt to maintain what makes me unique in the retail sector?
In what ways can I encourage my team to develop their personal brands and unique skills?
Reflections for the Road Ahead!
As you think about these questions, remember that the journey of leadership is not linear and it’s not about perfection but progress.
Embracing the Start, Stop, Continue framework is not a one-time exercise but a continual process of growth and adaptation.
I know during this time of year is tough to concentrate on yourself. Whether your market is exceeding expectations or suffering losses in sales - your ability to reflect, adapt, and lead with intention is your greatest asset.
But things will slow down and the new year will be here in a matter of days.
I need you to use these questions as a guide for your Leadership Northstar.
Remember, the greatest leaders are those who not only inspire others but also seek to inspire and reinvent themselves. Your journey in retail leadership is unique; let these questions guide your path.
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