Where Should Agile Leaders Dedicate Their Focus?

Giving teams problems to solve instead of specific tasks —I focused on the goals but not on how to achieve them. In the case of OKR, I asked my teams to propose key results (KR).

Inviting them to co-create goals — On top of that, I understood that leaders should invite others to co-create goals. I have repeatedly found that engineers often have the best ideas (“What”).

Showing trust instead of exercising control — This may seem not easy at first. I learned to delegate and trust much more than I felt comfortable with. The results surprised me.

Letting others work however they need to — The people closest to the problem know what they need to solve it—no more detailed procedures and instructions.

Encouraging experimentation and learning from mistakes — As a former developer, I often tried to cut corners, especially when working with people just starting their careers. But I have concluded that sometimes we should allow others to make mistakes.

Communicating vision and strategy regularly — It is crucial that everyone can identify with the mission, understand the goals, and feel confident they are going in the right direction.