Maverick Execution makes the difference: ‘One of the biggest failings of managers is that they are often not execution and output driven. They may be able to ‘talk a good game’, in such that they have many good cogent ideas on what needs to be achieved, or the effect that a change may have on a situation, but when pushed, they appear clueless on exactly how this change should be achieved. They have planned the communication and implementation of the change but not whether the change will have the desired effect. They are in fact wishing that if the implementation goes well, a good outcome will naturally fall out from it’ – Judith Germain, The Maverick Paradox: The Secret Power Behind Successful Leaders‘.
Mavericks understand that without some strategic forethought then nothing will be achieved. They do not presume that a good plan naturally has good outcomes. I’m not necessarily saying that you will find the maverick pouring over complicated strategic plans. (It is more likely they will plan the cogent elements and trust to their experience and ability to ensure that the detailed plan is fulfilled). It is just that they will spend some time considering the variables. This would include the things that might make the plan derail.
Before they implement anything, they will keep checking to ensure that the objective is able to be implemented and the stated purpose is able to be fulfilled by the proposed outcome.
Is it worth beginning?
Mavericks believe that nothing is worth doing if it can’t be executed or executed well. They will not even start a project, if they can’t see how it will be executed. Or that the execution fulfils the purpose. This reluctance to begin, before knowing all the facts can manifest itself into looking like challenging behaviour.
Before they start on a task Mavericks will ask lots of questions. This can seem like they are being nonconstructive and confronting with their manager. When, in reality, they just want to be certain that they understand what you want and what your parameters are. Mavericks like to succeed. To succeed they need to understand fully, your desire, purpose and preferred outcome before they can be confident that they can help you achieve it.
The danger they face is their relentless pursuit in ensuring that what they say they will do, they achieve. Mavericks pride themselves on their reputation for getting things done and succeeding in their endeavours. Part of their self-identity is that they always meet their commitments.
This is why mavericks are determined to execute at almost, any cost. When working with a maverick be absolutely clear about what you express. Whether that’s what you want to achieve as well as your unspoken desires. Mavericks often speak to the unspoken; so it’s possible that the end result is not what you expected.
Maverick Execution makes the difference, so be absolutely clear on what you want executed. It’s a bit like the old adage … be careful what you wish for.
