Responsibility

Responsibility is the assurance that the work that needs to be done will be done according to plan. While accountability relates to results, responsibility relates to the work that must be done in order to achieve those results. Accountability is outcome. Responsibility is process. It’s a subtle, yet important distinction.

Responsibility can be delegated. If individuals are responsible for performing the duties required of their positions, then as the owner, that means you're not responsible for performing those duties. If it's not your job, you must try to allow the right person to do it, even if it seems easier to do it yourself. In other words, let your people do their jobs. It might seem impossible right now, but with a little ingenuity, some planning and training, and great deal of courage, it’s possible to let your staff take full responsibility for their work. In fact, it’s a vital part of the process of growing your business.

Work Listings

Work Listings define the “responsibilities” associated with each position. In other words, the work that needs to be done. Work Listings will change over time. You or your employees will find better ways to do things and your Work Listings should evolve to reflect this. If everyone does their own thing, however, you have no way of making consistent or lasting improvements. It has to be a coordinated effort or there’s no point doing it at all.

Work listings outline the specific duties to be performed but they don't need to discuss how to perform them. Those details are found in your Business Systems.

Employment should always be tied to the position and never to the work. Otherwise, you risk hearing, “That’s not in my job description” when things change, as they inevitably do.