Table of Contents
Isolation is destructive security. Use the “Call Five People” rule to shatter your silo.
When You Lead in Isolation
- Perception narrows.
- Judgment dulls.
- Mistakes multiply.
- Influence shrinks.
- Doubt amplifies.
- Ego solidifies.
- Failure compounds.
The Rule
Spend 10 minutes with five different people.
Explain the situation.
Say, “My current thinking is…”
Ask questions like…
- After hearing this, what comes to mind for you?
- What am I overlooking?
- If you were me, your first move tomorrow morning would be…?
- If I fail, what did I leave undone?
- What must be done first?
Call Five People When
#1. You’ve circled the same problem for 48 hours. When you’re confused, talk with five people who believe in you.
#2. You wonder how. Call five people who have done it.
#3. You’re second-guessing. Connect with five people who know your strengths.
#4. You’re at a crossroads. Speak with people who ask great questions.
#5. The deadline for a major decision is pressing. Ask what if I do nothing?
#6. A high-stakes conversation is around the corner. Seek great relationship builders.
#7. You earned a promotion. Ask, “What’s the key to success over the next 90 days?”
Potential Members of Your “Call Five People” Roster
- The Sage: A mentor or leader with insight and experience.
- The Contrarian: A person who practices constructive dissent.
- The Peer: Someone who is in the trenches with you.
- The Outsider: Someone removed from your industry. Seek a human reality check.
- The Frontline: A team member directly impacted by this issue.
- The Dreamer: This person usually says, “What about…” Or “We could…”
- The Doer: Someone who always finishes what they start.
- The Feeler: An empath who feels what others feel.
When should leaders utilize the “Call Five People” rule?
Who do you suggest for the roster? Not on the roster?
Read: The Three Power-People You Need on Your Team
Author’s note: The idea of calling five people came from my friend Stan Endicott.
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Previously Published on leadershipfreak with Creative Commons License
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