Getting on the Same Page Leads to a Safe Flight and a Successful Business

Lesson #26: Leadership Lessons from the Cockpit

Posted on September 15th, 2020 by Randall Taussig

Pilots must get on the same page with air traffic control before every flight starts. Business leaders must do the same with their teams.

Why is getting on the same page so important?

In aviation, getting on the same page ensures a safe flight and an efficient arrival to the destination. Pilots are in partnership with air traffic control, and complete a thorough, well-documented process of obtaining a “clearance” before takeoff. Communication is verified so even if an issue arises, everyone knows what to do.

In business, getting on the same page is less dramatic but just as important. It results in clear action and accountability while avoiding confusion and costly mistakes.

Here are three ways to ensure you and your team are on the same page:

#1: Always push for clarity.

Whether you are flying an airplane or running a business, you must prioritize clear communication. Pilots read back each clearance to confirm understanding. Controllers will verify with “read back correct” or respond with corrections that the pilot must repeat back again. Only then is there assurance that both pilot and controller are on the same page.

During IDS in Level 10 meetings, we ask clarifying questions to make sure everyone is in agreement, and if we’re not, how we can get there.

#2: Understand the lingo.

Pilots understand the language of aviation. If a layperson listened to air traffic control give a clearance to a pilot, they will likely be confused and intimidated. But once they learn the “lingo,” it all makes sense.

EOS has its own business language, so we all understand what it means when something is “off track” on the Scorecard or “below the bar” on the People Analyzer Tool. Speaking the same industry language gives us confidence we are on the same page.

#3: Use repeatable processes whenever possible.

Pilots have been rigorously trained to understand all the pieces of the clearance, including the order received each time. EOS uses processes like Level 10 meetings with a proven agenda that are repeated every week. Practiced, predictable processes ensure everyone is on the same page.

As a leader, it’s your responsibility to push for clarity, speak the “language” that people understand, and to use repeatable processes that assure everyone is on the same page. You simply don’t have the luxury to “not know.”

I challenge you to assess your business’s communication processes. How often do you push for that level of clarity? What processes do you have in place to ensure everyone is on the same page? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Leading from the Core