Do people feel safe talking with you about their mistakes – seeing it as an opportunity to learn and grow? Or do they hide them to avoid getting grilled, beaten up – or maybe even fired? The former is certainly better for morale and productivity – a much better approach for enhancing organizational performance.

In thinking about that, I remembered a something Mick Mixon shared during a Business Class interview – a very wise approach to mistake management, one that would help most everyone feel safe. Listen to the interview excerpt (about 1 1/2 minutes long) right here.

A great management reminder about the power and importance of questions. About gathering information from the “mistakee” before making accusations and preaching lessons to be learned. All in an effort to enhance competence without diminishing spirit, enthusiasm and commitment.

copyright 2009 – Jan Bolick, Business Class Inc