Accountability

Do you abdicate personal responsibility for your future? Do you take
on a job and are prepared to accept the responsibility of the tasks and
accept any consequences for your actions – good or bad? Can you
willingly admit when you make a mistake or do you attempt to pass
the blame onto someone or something else? No one else can make
you accountable – you have to do this yourself! Don’t fall pray to the
it’s not my job syndrome!

Individuals who demonstrate accountability can be depended upon
to complete tasks effectively, meet deadlines – they always come
through – they can be depended on to do what needs to be done
– when it needs to be done.

It is often easier to use the excuse that it was someone else’s fault that
you didn’t achieve the outcomes required. Instead of passing blame
take a look in the mirror – this is the person who ultimately was
responsible. Making excuses does not fair well with your boss. Your
boss expects you to take charge of the situation and make it happen –
they expect you to be accountable. Quite frankly, they don’t like nor
are they willing to accept excuses.

When circumstances make things difficult and you run into
roadblocks with a project it’s important for you to communicate this
to your boss – give him or her a heads up – keep them in the loop. It
is far better to take this course of action rather than not accepting
accountability.

Here are some ways to demonstrate accountability:
• Clarify with your boss about the details of the task – know
  what needs to be done, when it is due and the level of
  authority you have in regards to the task.
• When you run into roadblocks advise your boss and then
  look for ways to move around those roadblocks – remember
  there is always more than one way to do things – use your
  creativity.
• When things go wrong step up immediately and let the
  effected parties know immediately – fess; up don’t make
  excuses and point blame.
• Become known as a can-do person – volunteer for the tough
  or unpleasant jobs.
• Be supportive of your fellow co-workers – help where you
  can – help them be accountable.
• Be willing to accept assistance in return from your
  co-workers – they’ll probably like to return the favour.

You’ll know its working when:
• You are offered more challenging types of tasks.
• You have the opportunity to try new things and develop your
   skills.
• You consistently meet target dates.
• You consistently do what is expected of you.
• You willing admit when you make a mistake.
• You keep your boss informed.
• You welcome new challenges.

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