Leadership field note
Lead or Be Led: The Empowered Employee
A leader’s vision establishes direction, but employees turn that vision into daily work through their knowledge, skill and judgment. Empowerment depends on giving them enough clarity to make useful decisions.
Ownership needs a visible standard
When outcomes and competencies are clear, an employee can assess the situation, act and explain the reasoning behind the choice. Feedback can then refine judgment instead of merely correcting compliance.
This creates a more active role for the employee in the development process and a more focused role for the coach.