SuperCompetent: The Six Keys to Perform at Your Productive Best

Part 5. SuperCompetent Key 5: Accountability

Note

SuperCompetent people take personal responsibility for their actions and outcomes.

ACCOUNTABILITY recognizes "the buck stops here."

This key teaches you to question processes, strive for continuous improvement, and practice self-discipline.

SuperCompetent people mean what they say and say what they mean. They make and follow through on promises to others. Other people know and appreciate their authenticity, as well as their refusal to blame others when unforeseen circumstances trip them up. SuperCompetent people are driven by an intense focus on their values, which are borne out of their demeanor and sense of accountability. A SuperCompetent person definitely honors Harry S. Truman's favorite expression: "The buck stops here."

Accountability involves a personal commitment to yourself and others; it's about the promises you make to the people who rely on you. Although developing your personal boundaries depends on your internal commitments, accountability is also about following through on your external commitments to others. This is the most difficult part of personal responsibility. However, when you're able to consistently hit goals, meet deadlines, and fulfill the promises you make to others, colleagues will perceive you as a responsible person. Becoming SuperCompetent requires mastery for its own sake, but having an excellent reputation is also helpful.

Dave Kutayia, Senior Vice President of Human Resources in ING Clarion's real ...