How effective leadership is key in establishing accountability

The last two posts discussed the importance of defining Needle Movers and breaking Needle Movers down into specific actions to bring about desired results. So why is this important? Defining your needle movers is important to establishing accountability in business which is an important aspect of its success. In turn, accountability is key in empowering your employees to become high performers, to demonstrate initiative, and to support the goals of the organization. When a climate of accountability exists, the company’s operations work more effectively and efficiently; and when it is absent, procedures begin to fail and policies are ignored.

What is Accountability?

There are various definitions for accountability. Essentially, most definitions incorporate the idea of personal responsibility to obtain desired results. The notion of accountability evokes both positive and negative reactions from people because it is often synonymous with responsibility, and in many cases blame and guilt. Sometimes there is resistance to being held accountable because of the negative feelings that can sometimes associated with it.

Accountability and Leadership

Accountability begins at the top.  Successful leaders have a clear vision for their organization.  As a result, their actions are focused on making that vision a reality.  This is why clearly defining your Needle Movers are important. Leaders serve as a model for the employees within their organization.  As a result, they should be held to the same standards that they expect of their employees.  In addition, it is essential for leaders to clearly communicate their expectations to their employees.  Clear communication and “practicing what you preach” are influential in employees following in the footsteps of their leaders.

One of the reasons why companies fail is due to the inability of leadership to establish and enforce accountability.  When your employees are not held accountable for their behavior, they will often lower their performance just to barely meet expectations. As a result, it is key to reinforce positive behaviors through positive feedback or rewards and inappropriate behavior with coaching or discipline.  When this is done appropriately and consistently, it creates a climate of accountability and performance will inevitably increase.

The bottom line is that it is imperative for executives to create and implement an accountability system.  Having a system in place that is consistently practiced by people at all levels will help the company move towards its vision and ultimately its success.

Contact Christine Comaford, The Executive Coach today for help with your business needs.