As I continue to read Ken Blanchard’s Leading at a Higher Level, I am forced to share this gem of understanding. Blanchard states that, in order to understand the concept of empowerment in leading people, one needs to learn a new language.
Here is his list of comparisons between hierarchical and empowering language:
| Hierarchical Culture | Empowerment Culture |
| Planning | Visioning |
| Command-and-control | Partnering for performance |
| Monitoring | Self-monitoring |
| Individual responsiveness | Team responsiveness |
| Pyramid structures | Cross-functional structures |
| Workflow processes | Projects |
| Managers | Coaches/team leaders |
| Employees | Team members |
| Participative management | Self-directed teams |
| Do as you are told | Own your job |
| Compliance | Good judgment |
I hope that the words in the two lists evoke deep thought about your management style, attitudes and expectations. I invite you to contact lyn@lyncikara.com to discuss your thoughts!