From the course: New Manager Foundations
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Developing a lieutenant
From the course: New Manager Foundations
Developing a lieutenant
- Every leader needs a great second in command, a lieutenant as a reliable collaborator and go-to person when something needs to get done. This is not a formal position but an invaluable informal role. A good lieutenant helps you in several ways. First, they can stand in for you when needed. Unfortunately, you can't be in two places at once. Your lieutenant can step in for you and keep you connected when you can't be somewhere or you can't get something done. Next, they are often great at initiating followership in tough situations. Following difficult decisions, it can be hard to mobilize support. Even if you manage the decision process very thoughtfully, they won't love every decision. However, once one person shows support, others are more likely to do the same. Thus, a lieutenant can become a catalyst for decision support. They can also serve as a great conduit for feedback from the team. Remember, your elevated…