The Miami Dolphins have recently been in the news for hazing allegations, which spells trouble in the locker room.
The Coach generally acknowledges responsibility for calling the right plays, putting his players in the right position to succeed, and winning. Granted. The implicit responsibility for understanding what is happening in the locker room is the issue at hand this week. And, yes, the Coach is responsible.
That is true of our IT Executives, too. As an executive or manager, you must be aware of what is going on around you, and responsible for what is going on under you. In sports, the term is keeping your head on a swivel. You can’t only pay attention to what is happening above you, but be aware of what is happening in your industry and among your peer executives, and translating that, effectively, into the strategy and tactical execution that your team must execute.
You must also be aware of what is going on within your team; including your direct reports AND their people. Are they properly trained and motivated? Are you doing everything possible to help them maintain an appropriate work/life balance? Do your people work well together and with peer organizations? You can’t keep a blind eye and succeed. Spend time walking the floor and talking to people above you, peers, and in your own locker room.