I recently asked VP/C-suite level managers about their challenges, hopes and ambitions regarding their teams. What impressed me more than specific answers was the passion, and frustration, they felt around what is possible, and the gap between that and where they are.
They want team members who are:
- Motivated
- Trust one another and collaborate
- Do better at managing themselves and taking initiative
I then asked, “What would be possible if you had this figured out?”
- We would all feel more energized, purposeful, connected to the work, more creative.
- People who are more creative bring deeper and better insights to the table. They bring new ideas, solution, approaches and that helps the business, the person and the team
- Team is highly engaged and motivated – they know how they are impacting the business, and feel appreciated by senior management
- They would solve big business challenges.
Middle managers are the ones getting it done, yet it’s often assumed that because they’ve already shown initiative, they don’t need as much mentoring and support. What would be possible with a little focus on this group? For most organizations, the resources to solve today’s grinding business challenges are within their four walls.