11/14/2023
If you're responsible for managing people, it means more than overseeing their work product. The best managers - those who are true leaders - see their roles as teachers of staff. 👩🏾🏫As such, it makes sense that we favor a "teacher tip" for supporting staff members learning new skills.
✨I DO - During this step, the teacher literally shows the student how to do something brand new; usually more than once. Instead of long division or writing a solid thesis though, you're showing your staff member how YOU do a task. Afterwards, debrief: What did they see you do? What concrete steps did you take? How did you handle areas of challenge?
✨We Do - In this step, the teacher does the problem collaboratively with the students, eliciting input and feedback along the way. At work, perhaps you're collaboratively planning the meeting or co-facilitating the presentation. Again, debrief after the fact to lock in the learning. 🔐
✨You Do - This is the independent worktime in a classroom and your chance to watch your staff member in action at work. It's their turn to do the work solo while you observe. The debrief after is still critical, and should include concrete feedback from you as well as the staff member's reflections.
This gradual release works as well in the boardroom as it does in the classroom - try it!
