How can we create workplaces where more voices matter, people thrive and find meaning, and change and innovation happen naturally?
The short answer is that we create workplaces where people have more control. This is the core of Intent-Based Leadership: giving control to others while ensuring there is clarity and structure. When people are trusted to make decisions, they become more engaged, creative, and willing to take ownership of their work.
Here is a Five-Point Checklist for creating workplaces where voices matter, people thrive, and innovation happens:
- Empower Teams with Control
- Shift from giving orders to empowering people to make decisions within clear boundaries. Trust teams to take ownership of their work and solve problems.
- Ensure Clarity and Structure
- Provide a clear vision, goals, and structure to guide decision-making. Balance freedom with guidance to create an environment where innovation thrives without chaos.
- Build Trust and Psychological Safety
- Foster a culture where people feel safe to share ideas, take risks, and act with purpose. Encourage open communication and mutual respect.
- Practice the Leader-Leader Model
- Develop competence and confidence by encouraging everyone to think, decide, and act as leaders. Use tools like the Ladder of Leadership to delegate effectively and grow decision-makers.
- Cultivate Commitment Over Compliance
- Move beyond a culture of following instructions to one of shared responsibility. Encourage initiative, problem-solving, and collaboration to create a collective force of engaged, innovative thinkers.