The Cost of Simplification
A computer in every home and on every desktop. That clear mission was the driving force that powered Microsoft to change the world. Great leaders simplify. They drive clarity and create priorities. Great leaders explain purpose in a way that everyone can understand. It sounds easy enough. Simplicity is the word we use to describe something a young child can do.
Why is something so easy the hot topic of so many leadership books? Let’s look at how the industry is doing today. When Microsoft seeks to clarify what is important today, they start with a mission statement. They expand with 3 core values. That is not enough so they explain with 6 focus areas of values in action. If that is not clear they finish with 4 leadership principles to get over the line. With all that prescriptive detail you might think everyone would have their marching orders. Nope! Just in case something is off try adding 15 scorecard metrics and you will start to get close. To be fair Google has 10 things they know to be true and 5 commitments. Amazon’s 13 leadership principles are so overwhelming they had to rewrite their entire interview process around them.
Simplification as a leader is HARD! Prioritization means making something not important. It means saying no. No almost always has a cost. It costs political capital to convince a senior leader something is not important. There are a limited number of times you can go to that well. Investments tend to follow strategic priorities and innovation opportunities. Saying no means less investment. There is also an opportunity cost when you do not place incubation bets for the future. Articulating simplicity requires work. Establishing prioritization requires work. Crossing out priorities usually costs you something.
If simplification has a price, should you pay it? Start by asking binary questions. They will lead you to what is important. Consolidate priorities where you can. Remember the art of the possible, it will not cost you anything if all you need to do is reframe the problem. Helpful Tip: Most executives articulate simplicity the best they can and let everything unsaid speak for itself. What separates managers from leaders is the ability to challenge and set direction. Sometimes doing the right thing for your company and your employees will cost you. Have courage! The lifelong loyalty from your team will far outweigh the short-term costs of speaking the truth when it’s not popular.