June 19, 2024

 

The relay race is one of the strongest examples of partnership. Each runner is assigned a specific role in the completion of the race. They must be careful to run their leg while not overrunning their role. They must also run in careful coordination with others. 

 

In the absence of fulfilling their role, in coordination with others, the team fails collectively. This requires each runner to be clear about their role and run strongly. It requires the team to communicate consistently and effectively with one another. It requires them to be mindful of transitions. Moreover, they must be mindful that the outcome of any race is a shared result. They either win or lose together.

Similarly, in any organization, department, or team, we must attend to our role, communication, and coordination with others, while being mindful of our shared results and reputation.

 

As a leader, it is important to distinguish between owning the outcome of the race and being compelled to run every leg. 

 

Early in my leadership journey, I felt compelled to run every leg. Falsely, I believed it was critical to do something in every leg of the race to demonstrate value. Over time, I learned the things I could do to support a successful race were:

 

-doing my part effectively 

 

-communicating consistently and effectively with the team

 

-coordinating with others in ways that ensured successful transitions, empowered everyone to run their own leg well, and accounted for what we collectively needed to implement a successful strategy for the race

 

Moreover, as a leader in a role akin to a coach, I learned I was not running a leg of the race. My role was to support each professional by:

 

-empowering them to deliver on the potential of their gifts and strengths 

 

-supporting their connection to the mission and vision

 

-ensuring they understand how their role and strengths contribute to the goal or project at hand 

 

-accounting for and addressing the conditions that impact the work

 

-providing professionals the feedback, support and resources needed to be effective 

 

As I continue my leadership journey, I am finding great value in periodically asking how the relay race is going. Central to this process has been questions like:

 

-Is everyone clear about the race, including the nature of the field, venue and participants?

 

-Is everyone clear about their role in the race? Am I clear about my role in the race?

 

-Do we have a clear game plan for transitions, obstacles and opportunities?

 

-Is everyone engaged? If not, why? How can I increase engagement?

 

-Is this still the right race or path?

 

Answering these questions periodically has been invaluable. Whether it’s orienting me to ensure everyone is seen, heard and supported or the ways in which it reinforces introspection, ongoing communication and coordination, and role definition, reviewing how you run your race will take places!