We are wrapping up contract negotiations for Leadercast 2025: The Legacy of Impact.
Contract negotiations are no fun.
After you work through the details, the contract process devolves into “Now, let’s imagine the worst-case scenarios and write down how we will handle them if they happen.”
I typically say to my counterpart at that point, “I hate this part, but it is necessary. Even though, I aim to treat each other so well that we will never have to reread this after we sign it.”
Ultimately, I want all of our contracts to be WIN-WIN.
I was introduced to WIN-WIN by Stephen Covey’s “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” nearly 35 years ago.
When I first heard the concept, it was hard for me to grasp. I’m a huge sports fan. (Go, Buckeyes!) and there is no WIN-WIN on the last Saturday of November when Ohio State plays Michigan.
In fact, for the last three years, it has been LOSE-LOSE. The Buckeyes have LOST the game, and I’ve LOST my joy.
But off the sporting field, WIN-WIN makes perfect sense.
Negotiations AND employment relationships need WIN-WIN to thrive and succeed.
This begs the question: As a leader, do you approach your employees and teammates with WIN-WIN on your mind?
There have been plenty of times in my leadership that I have not. I have approached people with the idea that I need this done. I need you to do it. And I don’t care what you need or what you want.
But as I strive to be a more effective and human-oriented leader, I am trying to slow down and think WIN-WIN.
Here are two things that are helping me.
- An ABUNDANCE MINDSET.
The abundance mindset dictates that there is enough for everyone. There is enough time, energy, and money to get what must be done.
Abundance says I can get what I want/need, and so can the people I work with.
Fear and scarcity fuel anxiety, which undermines positive outcomes for all.
So, the next time you approach a situation, remember: THERE IS PLENTY. We can figure out how we both can get what we want. - LISTENING.
This week, a teammate challenged me on something. I still believe that my overall concept is correct, but she was 100% right that my timing was wrong.
I am glad she had the courage to speak.
I am also happy that I had the humility to listen.
It’s amazing how much traction comes from people listening and feeling heard.
It takes a lot of discipline to think WIN-WIN, maintain an ABUNDANCE MINDSET, and LISTEN, but as I continue to lead, I genuinely believe it is the only way to keep your best people.
