Make sure they know how

It's important to set realistic expectations and take the time to discuss
why, the reason for doing whatever you are asking. However, of equal
importance is the need for you to be sure that people know how to do the
expected. Don't assume! Ask questions or even require a demonstration of
knowledge or a skill to ensure that the requisite capability is in place.
People are sometimes fearful of telling you or others about a deficiency
that may exist. Even if they are motivated to perform, without what it
takes to do the job, they may flounder until the lack of performance shows
up. Therefore, now there is a problem that might otherwise have been
avoided and corrective action will be required that is always more costly
and time consuming.

Since we live in the Information Age, knowledge is the commodity with which
we are most engaged. For example, we are likely to assume that a certain
type of college degree is indicative of certain abilities that a person may
or may not have acquired in the education process. Having attended a
certain type of training may not necessarily mean that a person has the
tools expected. One of my clients is consistently frustrated that his
employees are unable to cross-sell products even though they have been
exposed to certain types of training. Without verification of the ability
and motivation to perform, your expectations may only be wishful thinking.

Next time: Should you work for yourself?

Good day and good look,

Norman

Norman J. York, President
York Career Development, Inc.
3307 Northland Drive, Suite 280
Austin, TX 78731
Austin: 512-502-8258
Houston: 866-502-8258
Cell: 512-656-8239
Web site: www.yorkinc.com

"Your vision will become clear only
when you look into your heart.
Who looks outside, dreams
Who looks inside, awakens"
Carl Jung

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