You control the way your team and colleagues meet the day.
The things you say in the morning’s first five or 30 minutes will set their attitude and priorities for the challenges ahead. Over the course of a year or more, these simple comments will have a dramatic effect on your office’s reputation and productivity.
Talk about your mission early, and often. Know the day’s priorities and let everyone know you’re laser focused on driving unprecedented momentum. What’s in the news? Which engagements are you looking forward to? What are the next steps on your team’s long-term projects?
Think Like a Commander. Your leader chooses their words wisely. More than anyone else, you communicate and double down on your leader’s vision. Don’t be another staff guy slob.
Always Be Messaging. Your questions and actions emphasize your focus and inspire others — no matter your rank, age or position in the office (or JOC). A great early run that launched you into the day reminds others that they ought to be keeping up. A positive story about the post security guards, or DFAC team, says your culture appreciates others. The fact that you know what your units were up to overnight says you’re the headquarters PAO focused on their operations.
It’s Not About You. So even though your family, the way you slept, or how badly you need some coffee might be at the top of your mind, have the discipline to save it for never. Bad traffic? Shitty weather? Couldn’t find a parking spot? Let’s talk about something important.
We’re about building relationships, and sharing personal stories, as much as the next guy … but save it for the right time and communicate for purpose. Get to know your teammates during a mid-day pause watching the fish, or over a drink when the day’s work is behind you. Even then, it’s not about you.
Start your day on full power. Save opportunities to connect and recharge for the point in the day where you need it.
(Photo by Lt. Col. John Hall, again, DVIDS)
