risk-free learning

Constructing risk-free learning experiences that replicate the contexts in which we lead.

“If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later!” - Richard Branson

There are few things I love more than people who take on a challenge with enthusiasm. It’s exceptionally rewarding to work with a mentee who can tackle a difficult project and own it, and even more so to celebrate a success achieved by someone who dared to take the bull by the horns.

But enthusiasm can be a double-edged sword. I’ve witnessed countless leaders and employees conquering difficult projects, but I’ve also seen hands-off leaders that let their employees tackle challenges beyond their capabilities. A young employee’s “I can do this!” attitude is refreshing but certainly far from a good enough safety net.

There’s a fine line between being too controlling and being too hands-off. My experience has shown me that employees do their best work when they feel like they have complete ownership of the project. But as the stakes increase, so does the risk, and an overly risk-averse leader might put policies in place at the first sign of risk, which in turn might stifle creativity.

In the CEB article Reducing Risk Management’s Organizational Drag, the authors argue that “risk management that focuses too much on process and systems—but not enough on enabling better, more proactive risk decision making by employees—overlooks that business risks are magnified or minimized based on human behaviour and judgment.”

For leaders to be able to trust their employees’ judgement, they need to ensure that employees have opportunities to practice dealing with high-risk scenarios in a low-risk situation. Just like pilots using flight simulators to train for high-risk events, employees should practice dealing with business risks in an environment that is risk-free.

The authors of the CEB article conclude that “the ability to manage risks must become an essential leadership competency—on par with (and integral to) executing a strategy, launching a new product, and leading an effective team.” Using simulations and risk-free scenarios will allow employees to practice decision making, identify blind spots and learn from mistakes. Through practice employees can develop the capabilities that will allow them to deal with the unexpected and be confident and resourceful enough to course-correct on the spot.

How much time do your employees spend practicing decision making in a low-risk environment?