Scaling is Painful, but This Can Help

Summary

• When you have a decision with multiple options, present your suggested choice along with a second close alternative to the leaders. This shows you’ve thought it through and saves their time.

• Avoid bringing leaders raw problems; instead, provide near-final solutions and context. This approach helps them make quicker decisions.

• I use the term "6-in putts" to describe bringing issues that are practically resolved, needing just a small push to finish. This means you've taken it almost all the way, making it easy for leaders to complete.

• Leaders often lack the full context on issues, so as team members, we should do the groundwork by using our understanding and context effectively.

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How To Take Action

I would suggest implementing this by always presenting your best solution when you have a problem or decision to bring to a leader. Start by researching and understanding the issue thoroughly. Weigh all possible options and decide on the best course of action, with a runner-up option as well. This shows you are prepared, saves time, and helps leaders make quicker decisions.

A good way of doing this is to think of your issues as "6-in putts." Before approaching a leader, ensure you've pushed the problem as close to resolution as possible. This means you've done the research, considered different possibilities, and are prepared to explain why your suggested solution is optimal. It allows leaders to focus on making the final call rather than doing all the groundwork themselves.

Also, remember that leaders might not have your context. It’s important to communicate efficiently, using the context you've gathered to clearly explain the situation. Keep it simple and focus on the most pertinent points to avoid overwhelming them with unnecessary details.

Finally, practice this approach regularly to make it a habit. The more you prepare and offer near-final solutions, the better you’ll get at solving problems effectively and quickly. This saves time for both you and your leaders, making work smoother and more efficient.