Expecting Change-Positive Behaviors
“We are going to have to make sure that our direct reports know what we expect in terms of change-positive behaviors,” said Mary Prevost to Jim Andres, her colleague and fellow manager.
“I know, and I have a pretty good idea of what I expect of my employees. What I don’t know is how I should go about conveying my expectations,” replied Andres.
“We are supposed to get our recommendations about this issue to the change leadership team by next Monday,” said Prevost to remind her colleague of the deadline they faced. “Do you have an evening free this week we could set aside to brainstorm a little?”
“Good idea,” answered Andres. “How about tomorrow night?”
“Works for me,” responded Prevost. “In the meantime, let’s both jot down any ideas that come to us and bring them to the meeting tomorrow night.”
Discussion Questions
1. Is it really so important for employees to know what is expected of them? Why or why not? What kind of problems might occur when employees do not know what is expected of them?
2. If you were going to join Andres and Prevost in their brainstorming meeting, what ideas would you suggest?