Ed Koch was a three-term mayor of New York City in the 80’s and was famous for constantly asking “how’m I doin”. Walking around the city Ed would ask random New Yorker’s “how’m I doin?”. In asking this question Ed demanded approval from those he served because he would adjust based on their feedback. This random solicitation for feedback to assess his performance helped him become one of the most admired mayors of New York City.
The answer to this question can be critical to your survival as a leader. While your future isn’t determined by votes from the staff, it is still important for you to gather feedback from them. It is equally important to get regular feedback from other people in the organization you interact with. The best way to get feedback is to randomly solicit it from those you serve.
Implement a leadership “how’m I doin” walk. Take time weekly or monthly to walk around the office asking random people how you are doing. When soliciting feedback seek out those you work with regularly or who have regular interactions with you. Don’t stop with just asking, the feedback is useless if you don’t act on it. If it warrants further discussion, schedule a meeting for a more in-depth conversation.
In addition to your walks, periodically do self-assessments. These regular career assessments will help you stay on track to achieve the career you want.
