Juan worked in a company for two years. He was a very good worker dedicated and fulfilling his obligations, he arrived punctually every day and to date he had no admonition. One day, Juan looked for the manager to make a claim he said:
- I have been working with this company for two years with enough care, I am comfortable with my position and I have never complained, but I feel that I have been left out. Look, Fernando entered a position equal to mine only six months ago and has already been promoted to supervisor. I have been in the company longer than him and they have not taken me into account.
The manager looked at him paying close attention and said:
-I see, I think that has to be solved, but at this moment I have a bigger problem and I need you to help me first. -The manager continued speaking.- From the kitchen they have informed me that they do not have to make the juice of today's lunch, please find out if they have fresh fruits in the store opposite.
Juan left the office and waited to complete the assignment. At 5 minutes I was back
-Well, Juan, what did you find out? -The manager asks.
- Sir, they have oranges for sale.
-Naranjas? very good, and how much do they cost?
-Ahhhh no, I did not ask sir.
-Okay. And did you see if they had enough oranges for all the staff?
-Mmmm no sir, I did not ask that either.
-Well, Juan, sit here a moment please.
The manager took the phone and called Fernando. When he showed up he gave him the same instructions Juan had given him and at 10 minutes Fernando was back. the manager asked him:
-Well Fernando, what news do you bring me?
- Sir, they have oranges, enough to serve all the staff or if you prefer they also have melons, mangoes and passion fruit. In this paper you can see the list of the prices of each fruit. I spoke with the owner of the store and I got a 10% discount because we are going to buy a good amount. I left the oranges separated, but if you choose another fruit I must return to confirm the order.
The manager smiled and said, "Thank you very much, Fernando, I'll take care of the rest, I can continue with your tasks.
Fernando left the office and the manager looked at Juan who was still sitting there.
-Juan, what did you tell me?
-No, nothing sir, nothing. That's all with your permission sir, with your permission
There are so many things we can learn from this story that I think whole books could be written analyzing the scene that I just told you, but in today's Power Call we are going to reflect on proactivity, on the leader's ability to anticipate to the needs of your team and take initiative before it is necessary. I want you to learn, or better you tattoo on your mind something that is worth pure gold. Understand that there are 2 types of people, two types of people who will never be leaders, nor will they get anywhere. Learn it, those people who do not do what is asked of them and those people who only do what is asked of them. I am sure that I am making myself understood with what I say, a person who in a work team does not fulfill their duties or their tasks puts at risk the whole team or organization, that person can not advance or let advance. A person who in a team is not willing to shake hands with a partner who needs it or who says things like "that's not in my contract", "that's not my function", "I'm not paid for that" They are people who can not advance because of their limited vision and do not let the organization advance. As a leader you are never going to fall into those types of person, keep your vision, keep your enthusiasm and be proactive or proactive. Always, always, always gives much more than what others expect. Lead with your example and show what you're worth