When I’m working with a new project member,
I first give the person ‘test’ tasks.
I ask them if they can do this by a certain date.
They agree.
And then I wait.
If they accomplish that task on time,
I give them responsibilities.
If they don’t,
I know I can’t depend on them
and assign them ‘busy’ tasks.
As Tony Simons says
in
The Integrity Dividend
“…any leader’s word is his or her most potent tool,
and an effective leader devotes much attention
to developing and preserving the power of that word.
It is not about being nice.
It is not about being ethical.
It is about being more effective by
developing and preserving your credibility.”
Guard your word closely.
It is your most important asset.