Effective Management: Lessons in Task Completion and Leadership

 

When I was promoted to middle management in an organization, I asked one of my subordinates to complete a certain task. Normally, the work would take about a week, but despite repeated reminders, it remained unfinished even after three months. To address this, I demonstrated how to complete the task within three days, setting an example for my subordinate.

From this experience, I learned a valuable lesson: people may struggle to accomplish tasks even if given ample time. Therefore, from a subordinate’s perspective, it is crucial to:


1.    Choose a Fixed or Earlier Delivery Date: Proactively set a deadline by considering a certain margin and work backward from it to manage your progress.

2.    Seek Clarification and Guidance Early: If you're unable to complete the task, ask for clarification and feedback on the expected outcome from your superior as early as possible. Seek advice on how to proceed effectively.

From a superior’s perspective, it is equally important to:

1.    Monitor Progress: Keep an eye on the progress of your subordinates' work.

2.    Engage and Consult: If progress is slow, consult with your subordinates promptly to understand the current situation and take necessary measures.

By applying these strategies, both subordinates and superiors can work more efficiently and collaboratively, leading to better outcomes for the organization.

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