“There probably isn’t a more significant or more critical challenge for any leader at any level than supporting accountability and fairness.  In the final analysis there will always be people who reject accountability if it doesn’t immediately support their cause or situation.  And sometimes doing the right thing can come at a high price.  Nonetheless, it is evident that most people thrive in an environment in which accountability and fairness define the organization’s culture.”  (Dr. Lew Bender)

Selecting a meaningful quote from my mentor, colleague and long-time friend Dr. Lew Bender was not difficult when I considered ACCOUNTABILITY as this week’s specialized TRIPLE III TIME message focus.  In his classes, workshops and written articles…Dr. Bender has always had a comfortable, common-sense manner of bringing forth critical issues and making them applicable in anyone’s world-of-work.  He has followed that “trend” in his quote on ACCOUNTABILITY.

But wait…what does all of this great information about Dr. Bender’s instructional style have to do with this week’s TRIPLE III TIME message:  Advancing Branches of an “ACCOUNTABILITY TREE”?

The answer is simple!  First take another look at Dr. Bender’s quote and pull-out the separate terms that all connect with ACCOUNTABILITY.

• Critical Challenge
• Fairness
• Cause/Situation
• Doing Right Things
• Leader
• Support
• High Price
• Organizational Culture

Then picture an “ACCOUNTABILITY TREE” with all of these very important terms shown as “branches”.  Can you see it?  It truly represents a very progressive, impactful visual.

The Bottom-line III Message:  I believe most organizations or businesses do not train their staffs well in the area of ACCOUNTABILITY.  No matter the focus…individual…teams…or the entire entity, everyone should consider, reflect and contribute to Advancing Branches of an “ACCOUNTABILITY TREE”.  Issues like clear expectations, honesty, directness, behavior, performance, roles, and communication all have a place on an Advancing Branch!  And if these factors are progressively dealt with by ALL…the Branches WILL advance and grow.  If not…will you know what will happen.

And as always…THANKS Dr. Bender for your help and support!