Leadership Lessons from My Father: Share Success, Not Just Problems

A note to young leaders. Lessons from my father.
In 1987, dad developed a hotel in Canberra called “The Garden City Motor Inn”. He operated the hotel for a few years before he sold it.
One day I overheard my father fielding a call from the hotel manager. After dealing with the issue at hand, dad smiled and said:

“Greg, I’m very happy to field your calls whenever there are major problems – that’s my job. But let me give you a tip for your career, don’t just call me when you’ve got bad news.”
Dad chuckled and continued: “Half your calls to me should be to convey your excitement about some good news – a major booking we’ve received, a record quarterly profit or a great customer testimonial.”

“I chose you to manage the hotel because you are enthusiastic and optimistic about the role. Don’t forget to show me that side of you.”

Dad was right. Business is a bore if we don’t also share our successes.
Communicate the top 10% and bottom 10% of news up the line. Don’t just focus on the bottom 10%.

And never fear that you are wasting your manager’s time reporting your achievements. Good leaders delight in the success of their team and will relish your call.