Re-listened to Dorie Clark’s TED talk from 2021. Topic was what successful long-term leaders do differently.
Management Research Group of 10,000 leaders were asked what the key to long-term success. 97% responded “Strategic Thinking”.
Another study found that 96% didn’t have time for strategic thinking. So, what gives? As expected answer was how question was asked. Second study found that average professional attends 62 meetings a month. I checked last month’s calendar. Sure enough, I attended 65.
We only need 3 meetings a day to get there. Then he pointed out that 28% of time is spent on emails.
How do successful leaders avoid these traps?
Successful leaders understand that our minds don’t deal with uncertainty well. They strive to take uncertainty off meeting agendas. Tighten up agenda wording to eliminate ambiguity. Or shelve the agenda item until it can be tightened.
Successful leaders spend time reflecting whether they are needed in this meeting. They bow out of meetings that won’t advance their agendas or contribute directly to issues they are working on. (And yes, they have some meetings they are required to attend. They do assess whether they are needed for entire meeting.) They ruthlessly control what they can.
What are they reflecting on before meetings? What are the big questions that need to be addressed in this meeting? Who is going to be addressing them? Is that the right person? If not, can who speaks be changed without creating negative feelings? If not, make sure right comments and directions are inserted. Effective leaders know when to cut off discussion on an agenda item. They keep meetings moving.
Effective leaders know when to advocate. There’s time for opinions and discussions. Then there is time to advocate for specific decision. Then to make sure firm decisions are implemented.Are meetings we attend motivating and energizing us? All meetings can be organized to build energy. To inspire. Even meetings presenting updates on technical information can be presented to increase urgency and excitement.
Dorie pointed out we need to create our own space to do more. That typically means less meetings. The more strategic thinking we can do, the more value we can bring.
Calls To Action
How will you increase your strategic time by 5% this month? Write it down. Don’t just think about it.
What is one meeting this coming week you don’t need to attend? What will you do to be more strategic with that time?
Tom Ferree is the founder of Ferree & Associates and SecureEmploy, organizations focused on helping companies find exceptional talent and helping professionals advance their careers. Since founding Ferree & Associates in 1977, Tom has worked extensively with hospitality companies, executives, and rising leaders across the industry. Through SecureEmploy, he shares practical career strategies, leadership insights, and real-world advice to help professionals grow their careers and help organizations build stronger teams.
