"The Nudge" (or "Unlocking Potential")
As a young engineer I recall complaining to my manager about an assignment – if I fix “A” than “B” stops working right, but when I change “B” then “C” can’t be kept within specification, etc. He leaned back in his chair, looked me in the eye, and said “You know that’s why we pay you, right?” That simple comment stayed with me for decades – if it was easy, anyone could do it and my job wouldn’t exist – it inspired me to “dig deeper” to try to overcome obstacles throughout my career.
Years later, as a manager myself, I noticed that a promising early-career engineer in my group would show up to our weekly meetings with problems clearly defined, hypotheses validated with rigorous data, and well thought out plans for resolving any issues. Each week I would say, “Yes; that makes sense; go ahead.” One day I said “Y’know, I trust your judgement. Every meeting you come into my office with all your ducks in a row. You don’t need to ask my permission to go do the right thing.” It was a turning point – from solid performer to star. She seemed far more comfortable taking initiative after that conversation, and her career blossomed. She took on increasing responsibilities and today is a trusted Sr. Director. Learn the personalities of your team members - sometimes a single, well-placed comment, or a subtle nudge is all it takes to unlock great potential.
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