Building Personal Accountability in Ourselves and Others We Lead

How often have we worked for someone or been part of a team where we cared so much that we would go to the earth's ends to ensure we did what we said we would do? Or, come hell or high water (my mother says), we will do whatever it takes to deliver results on a specific goal or deadline.

Here's the savvy part: As a Savvy EdTech leader, how do we influence others to feel the same way about us? How do we lead those we are responsible for, so they follow us on their own accord? That's savvy! We either get things done and deliver, or we don't. ​

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How do we create personal accountability in others, so they follow us, not because of our title or because they have to, but because of who we are? Have you ever said or heard something like this when talking about your team or those you lead?

• My senior engineer for network infrastructure needs to pull his weight. His lack of action is affecting our school district’s network and Internet availability. Teachers, students, and parents are complaining.
• I don't trust my administrative secretary to do her work correctly. She makes too many mistakes, which is causing me undue stress. And she doesn't seem to care.
• My student information management team needs to take ownership of their work. When I ask them for a status about our new product implementation, they don't feel a sense of urgency. I feel like they aren't even listening to me.​

Ouch…. You get the picture. There are many examples! As bestselling author John Maxwell says, the crux of the issue is that "everything rises and falls on leadership. Nothing more, nothing less." When we talk about our teams and those we lead as having little concern for personal accountability, we speak negatively about ourselves. It's the crucial role of leadership, particularly in the EdTech field, to find a way to build and sustain personal accountability, making us integral to the process.

One of my favorite sections of The Savvy EdTech Leader book is a section called, Create Harmony and Accountability. I like this section because holding ourselves and others accountable is one of the savviest leadership skills. Don't you wish we could package it up and buy it?

Think of the most influential leaders you know or those you have worked for. What do these leaders do to gain your unwavering support? I think of my former superintendent at Cypress Fairbanks ISD, a district with 130,000 students. Every day was a gift working for him. He inspired me and all those he led to achieve unimaginable results.

All the influential leaders I have followed graciously with 100% personal accountability have several characteristics in common. When thinking about what comes to mind, here is my top 10 list. 

1. Credibility and reputation.
2. Charisma with an emotional connection.
3. Articulates a clear and compelling vision.
4. Guided me toward my career aspirations.
5. I respected them because of who they are and what they represent.
6. Inspire personal accountability without micromanaging.
7. Create opportunities for me and others they lead.
8. Passionate about their purpose and adding value to my purpose.
9. Interested in building a legacy in what they do.
10. Steadfast commitment to their personal accountability.

How can we master personal accountability, which is such a critical element for savvy leadership and team effectiveness? Here's the exciting news: Instilling personal accountability in ourselves and others is low-cost if we are committed to doing whatever it takes to build and sustain it. Consider checking out our book, The Savvy EdTech Leader, and jump start your career journey.

What is your top 10 list for instilling 100% personal accountability in yourself and those you lead? We would love to hear your ideas.