Simple Rules and Emergencies

Written By Allison Pollard

Photo by Kristy Johnson

Most of us know the importance of being proactive rather than reactive, but in many organizations, emergencies and "fires" can be the norm.  An organization can tell employees that one of its values is being proactive, but what does that mean?  As Seth Godin points out, "An organization that's run on emergencies and reaction to incoming doesn't know what to do when there are no problems."  A simple rule can help translate a value into a behavior.

During AYE, I started discussing what a simple rule for being proactive might be.  We came up with:

Listen to your gut and share information freely.

Allison Pollard

Allison Pollard is a coach, consultant, and trainer who brings the power of relationship systems intelligence to go beyond tasks, roles, and frameworks to create energy for change. She engages with people and teams in a down-to-earth way to build trust and listen for signals to help them learn more and improve. Allison focuses on creating alignment and connection for people to solve business problems together. Her experience includes working with teams and leaders in energy, retail, financial, real estate, and transportation industries to help improve their project/product delivery and culture. Allison currently volunteers as program director for Women in Agile’s mentorship program. Her agile community focus is championing new voices and amplifying women as mentors and sponsors for the next generation of leaders. Allison earned her bachelor’s degrees in computer science, mathematics, and English from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. She is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC), a foodie, and proud glasses wearer. Allison is a prolific speaker at professional groups and international conferences, including Scrum Gatherings and the Agile Alliance Agile20xx conferences. Allison is co-owner of Helping Improve LLC.

http://www.allisonpollard.com
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