Great leaders paint their own destiny
Great leaders live/lead through ambiguity
All of these statement are true, and yet in the details of all of these statements is work. Inherent in this work is the simple question of What is the 
work?
One of the core beliefs I have is that everyone needs a target. The details will vary based on the individual, their drive, experiences, self-confidence, etc. That data that supports this is Gallup’s Q12 and the most critical question to measure employee engagement – I know what’s expected of me at work. There is no exception in the research saying This does not apply to executives.
Yesterday I saw some great training that a start-up organization had put together to help their new leaders understand the culture and expectations they were stepping into – and see the target. I know it will make a difference as they grow, especially if their leaders provide the conversations to support the learning and build the bridge to performance. This is the hidden ingredient to clear expectations – an ongoing conversation about wins, losses, and just being lost. This is called leadership.
When I sit down with leaders to create the one on one sheet, I am amazed at the conversation that often ensues. Sometimes it is laced with frustration, but more often it is about relief because expectations are clear.
Everyone needs a target. Everyone.
