9. True Accountability – The Secret to Sustainable Success

The Business You Really Want

Do you know the difference between being reliable and being accountable?

In this episode of "The Business You Really Want," hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo break down the concept of true accountability and why it’s crucial for achieving sustainable success in business. Learn the key differences between tracking, reliability, and accountability, and how fostering a culture of non-judgmental accountability can transform your business operations and outcomes.

Here’s what you can expect in this episode:

• 2:38 - Understanding what true accountability is (and isn't)
• 6:02 - Accountability is about more than acknowledgement
• 8:36 - When does accountability become micro-management?
• 12:35 - The weekly course of action
• 15:28 - Creating feedback loops to make sure things get done
• 19:13 - Common accountability mistakes that many business owners make
• 25:21 - How to foster a culture of accountability without micromanaging
• 28:40 - Important questions to consider for effective accountability

Key Takeaways:

• Accountability vs. Reliability: Being reliable is about completing tasks, while true accountability involves a relationship where someone else is invested in your results.
• Non-Judgmental Accountability: Create a culture where feedback is given without judgment, encouraging open communication and continuous improvement.
• Avoid Micromanagement: True accountability isn’t about checking every step but understanding the results and reflecting on the process to improve.
• Ask the Right Questions: Effective accountability involves asking questions that encourage reflection, such as "What did we learn?" and "What can we do differently?"
• The Power of Feedback: Regular check-ins and constructive feedback can help keep everyone aligned and motivated.

Ready to build a culture of true accountability in your business? Try this:

1. Differentiate between tracking, reliability, and accountability: Understand the unique role each plays in your business.
2. Encourage open communication: Foster an environment where feedback is welcome, and judgment is minimized.
3. Focus on results, not just tasks: Regularly review what’s been achieved and what could be improved, rather than just ticking boxes.
4. Get a partner in accountability: Find a mentor, peer, or coach who can provide objective feedback and support.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The Everyday Effectiveness team practices true accountability internally and in partnership with their clients. If you’d like to experience the Weekly Course of Action for yourself, join the waitlist here: https://forms.gle/eqSzk6oktYdoCUaM9

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Also, be sure to check out Episode 10, where we discuss building a resilient business strategy that can adapt to any challenge.