Chapter 9

Key Lean Leader Behaviors

As stated earlier, there are a few key differences between what traditional managers do vs. lean leaders. Here are of few of the most significant differences (Figure 9.1).

Figure 9.1

Figure 9.1

So …

  1. Get out of your office!

  2. Go to where the work is being done (gemba) and observe what is actually happening firsthand.

  3. Ask front line workers what inhibits their ability to perform their work easily and smoothly. What obstacles do they experience that are beyond their control?

  4. Listen and learn. Ask questions from a perspective of curiosity vs. judgment.

  5. Resist the temptation to solve problems but encourage those closest ...

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