Acknowledge who made the decision

I spoke with a relatively new manager the other day, and I was struck by the tone in their conversation. For example, they said things like, “This team is doing a good job” or “A decision was made to do this on the team.” I stopped them and asked who made that decision, and after thinking, they said, “Well, I made the decision.”

I then asked, “Was that team your team?” And they looked a bit confused and then said, “Yes.” Well, then you need to say it. Say, “I made this decision,” and “my team is doing a good job.” After a brief pause, they looked relieved, but I said, “No, really, say ‘I made this decision’ and ‘my team did a good job,’” which they repeated and then smiled.

You’re the manager, and you have the responsibility for the team. I’m not implying that the team can’t make decisions or that all decisions must come from the manager, but when they do, the manager should acknowledge the source and the decision (good and bad).

Don’t use the word ownership with people. You can own things, you can own problems, you can own solutions and outcomes. But you don’t own people, and even allowing that thought into your mind will lead you over a cliff. At that point, people become resources, and resources are interchangeable, and they don’t have families to go home to at night. Resources can be hired and fired at will, with nary a thought. You can be a manager of resources, but at that point, why would you want to?

For people, you are responsible, accountable, or a steward. They’re not children, but your job is to look after them, guide them, coach them, and help them deliver for your firm.