Don’t Be Like the Tile Guy

You want me to do what?

I needed some tile work done in my home; so I called a few tile experts.
After a detailed conversation with one, he said he’d call me back next week.
Then he added, “If I don’t call you back, call me.”

I did an aural double-take. Excuse me? What? If you forget to call me back, I’m supposed to remind you?
Wait, aren’t you the professional tile guy? Don’t you do this for a living?
And I’m the one who needs to follow up? Uhhh…..

So as you navigate your career as a leader, don’t be the tile guy.

Are people reminding you because you haven’t followed up with them?
Does your manager have to ask you for things you should have already anticipated or delivered?
Do your direct reports keep requesting meetings because you always cancel?

Be a professional. Be self-managing. And do what you commit to do.
Anticipate needs, especially your manager’s, and deliver.
And show up as a leader; be there for your team.

And, no, I didn’t call him back when he forgot to call me back. 🙃