Thursday; January 12
The other day I was watching a television show that used a rather common term applied to overcoming challenges. When organizations experience unexpected setbacks – especially when they lose key people – they rely upon the concept of “Next Man Up”. In essence, when our starters (or stars) go down, effective organizations rely upon their next levels to step into the vacancy.
While this is an effective response, have we given much thought as to how we prepare to be the “next people up”? First, we must know our job. Even when we aren’t the primary players, we need to be preparing ourselves to be ready when we get the opportunity to shine. Second, we must do our best when we get the chance. Knowledge is important but what turns potential into talent is effort. Yet, maybe the most underappreciated aspect of this concept is a willingness avoid excuse-making and whining about the unfairness of our situation. When we complain about the circumstances that caused the need for replacements to step forward, we tend to focus on the hardships rather than the hard work.
Just about every organization will have to deal with challenges and setbacks. Are we willing to “cowboy up” to fill the gap? Maybe a more far-reaching approach is providing each member of our organization with the knowledge and ability to be prepared for whatever happens.
While this is an effective response, have we given much thought as to how we prepare to be the “next people up”? First, we must know our job. Even when we aren’t the primary players, we need to be preparing ourselves to be ready when we get the opportunity to shine. Second, we must do our best when we get the chance. Knowledge is important but what turns potential into talent is effort. Yet, maybe the most underappreciated aspect of this concept is a willingness avoid excuse-making and whining about the unfairness of our situation. When we complain about the circumstances that caused the need for replacements to step forward, we tend to focus on the hardships rather than the hard work.
Just about every organization will have to deal with challenges and setbacks. Are we willing to “cowboy up” to fill the gap? Maybe a more far-reaching approach is providing each member of our organization with the knowledge and ability to be prepared for whatever happens.
Think About It!