Sound familiar? It should! No matter the size of the organization I have worked with, a constant refrain is that "there is too much to do and not enough resources". Certainly I have felt that way myself as I adjusted to changing priorities, staff departures or adopting new technology or processes. If you work as part of a high performing team, you will enjoy and try to set higher standards or doing more with less. However, if staff are burned out, timelines are being missed or the quality is missing, there may be an issue with your strategic planning and decision-making processes.
As a senior leader in your organization, one of the most important responsibilities you have is to make choices and to communicate the direction clearly and effectively so that the rest of the organization is set up for success.
Studies have shown that organizations who try to manage too many priorities spend more of their time reporting and coordinating, rather than doing. The report card begins to move from a mix of green/yellow/red to mostly yellows and reds.
What's the first step?
Review how many objectives have been set for the year. If there are more than 3-5, take a time out. Remember that if each objective has 3-5 goals and each goal has 3-5 strategies....you get the picture! A lot of activity gets created from each objective.
Your staff are most likely very passionate, creative and resourceful, but ultimately, it is up to the Leadership team to set achievable expectations.
Let me know if I can help you, your team or your organization re-focus and re-energize.
