"Who's in charge here?"

How many times have you heard this question in a business?

The restaurant service is bad… “Who's in charge?"

The car was not repaired correctly or in a timely manner…. “Who’s in charge?”

This dental bill isn't correct…. “Who's in charge?"

We have all either asked this question (or heard it asked) only to be told, "Ashley is in charge and she isn't available at this time and will get back to you.”

…. seriously?

As leaders, it’s our job to grow and develop those around us into leaders as well. It’s our responsibility to empower our team to take ownership over the issues that pop up within our company. It’s our responsibility to encourage them to walk, talk, and act like a leader regardless of their position or title.

Above all, this means we must provide them the autonomy to make decisions, take action, offer suggestions and hold each other accountable. This is where true leadership lives, in the empowerment, autonomy, and sense of responsibility that exists within our teams.

So, the next time someone asks “who's in charge?”, each of us can quickly respond with, "I am, how can I help you?"