90% are in the 90%

Implementation… without it, nothing gets done. Lot’s of things get started, even more things get talked about. That’s what 2-hour meetings are known for… all talk and no implementation. We came across an article this week that classifies different types of managers as to their effectiveness. The article focused on managers since their main role is to turn talent into performance. In other words their job is to implement, to get things done. Often times leaders will have to manage. Additionally, as we read this article we also recognized that these same classifications applied to all employees and as managers it’s imperative that you recognize not only where you are but where your employees are. The funny thing is this… while only 10% of managers take purposeful action, the vast majority of managers will think they are part of the 10%. Here’s the reality check… all 90% are in the 90%. Now we believe the most engaged will actually take time to read this blog so you very well may be in the 10% of those getting things done. But feel free to pass this along to the 90% that you work with.

Here’s how the article broke it down…
10% take purposeful action. These people know the vision of the organization. They know how their team fits into this vision and they have a core score that can be tracked to show they are moving in the right direction. They produce and the results of their actions are easily seen and measured. Bottom line – They are Implementers.

40% are energetic but unfocused. These people are putting in their 40 hours and seem to be staying busy. Just one problem… they don’t have a core score. You must insure that these employees have set expectations and know how they are scored. It’s not just about hours but more about productivity and results that drive to the vision and purpose of the organization.

30% have low energy and are unfocused. Low energy is another word for lazy. Even if they are in the office for 40 hours a week they certainly aren’t working 40 hours. Check their Facebook activity. These employees are in the wrong job. You either need to move them along or in some cases find a different role for them that fits their talents. Odds are these employees have checked out and steps should be taken to make a change.

10% were focused but not energetic. This may be the saddest case of all. They know what needs to be done, they have a core score but they are too lazy to do anything about it or they just don’t care. They’re a paycheck collector. The best thing to do with this 10% is to fire them this morning. Life’s too short to deal with them.

Action Points…
Leaders: Make sure the vision and purpose of the organization is clear. Establish and communicate the core scores for your management team.
Managers: Track the core scores of your team on a daily basis. Identify where you and your team members fit into the percentages listed above and implement a plan to move your team forward.
Employees: Understand where you are as an employee and take responsibility for your career. Control what you can control. Demand a core score and that expectations be set for you.

Study: Most Managers are Ineffective