6 Tips for Accountable Leadership [Infographic]

We've all heard it... "Why doesn't Jane just do what I've asked her to do!?" or "How can I hold Tom accountable?" Chances are, if you lead a team, you have had similar frustrations. More often than not, the Janes and Toms of the world aren't coming to work everyday looking for ways to disappoint their bosses. Typically, they are good, hard-working, smart people or you wouldn't have hired them in the first place. So, where's the disconnect? Why are they causing you such frustration?

As a leader, it is your responsibility to create a culture where accountability can thrive. You have to build and reinforce the right conditions for your team to be able to succeed. As individuals, the Toms and Janes also have to do their part - to be willing to take responsibility for their results. But they can't do this if you don't do your part to be an accountable leader.

Here are 6 Tips for Accountable Leadership:

Next time you have a Tom or a Jane on your hands... ask yourself the questions in the graphic above. And, don't get mad at Tom or Jane until you are sure you've done everything you can do to establish trust, share the big picture, clarify expectations, communicate effectively, provide coaching, and follow up with consequences.