While there are a ton of good tools and technologies in existence, with more available, people still build projects. I am not anti-advancement but I think unskilled people with a shiny new tool will find a way to fail while highly skilled people find a way to build a better world, no matter what, sometimes in spite of the tools and resources they have. I also think people will continue to build a better world for a long time so while we are developing new tools, we should develop the best people and team that we can. Eventually, AI and robots may come and build without us but if that happens we may be less concerned about losing a job to a robot than having to answer to robot overlords in our daily lives. Recently shared data by Gallup found that large American companies spend over $17 million a year on training but could save over $63 million with different, better or more training. Developing better people starts with improving managers and isn't a one time training event. It's ongoing and part of day to day work. When managers are best engaging with and developing their people, they ask questions like:
"What do you think is expected of you for each project? What helped enable your contribution during this project? How can I help you align your work with your goals and aspirations? Do you see a future with our organization? How can I support you in forging a flexible, personalized career path? How can I coach you to support your career development?"
These questions focus on managing expectations, equipping people for success and making sure people are in the right position. We need to make sure we find the right people for the job but also find the right job for our people. When a construction pro is skilled at something, likes doing it and sees a future in it, equipping them for success and being successful happens much more easily.
Comments