Commitment Keepers

Consistently honoring our commitments and fulfilling our promises—or doing what we say we will do—is a true sign of strong leadership. In fact, many companies somewhere in their organizational structure or mission statement state they will follow through on their commitments and promises. Unfortunately, more often than not, the follow through never happens and poor relationships ensue. So how do we complete our commitments and promises consistently? Following through on every commitment is not easy but can be done. And, I have a few ideas that can help us be commitment keeping individuals!

#1 Believe We Can
First of all, we must sincerely believe we have the ability to really follow through on our commitments and promises and that doing so really makes a powerful difference. In fact, the more we believe we have the capability of completing a commitment or promise, the more obligated we feel to follow through and do whatever we can to make it happen. On the contrary, when we believe we can’t follow through on a commitment, it is human nature to take little responsibility for ensuring it gets done which then leads to downplaying its significance. So, we must know that we are capable of keeping our commitments!

#2 Promise What We Will Do
Second, we must not commit to something we have no intention of doing or that we are incapable of completing. If we promise someone the world, surely we will not be able to offer it, and thus we are not doing anyone any favors. If we over promise and do not succeed, we begin to lose credibility. So, when we make a commitment, we need to make sure we have every intention of fulfilling it. To do this best we need to be very clear and honest in our promises and commitments.

#3 Do What We Promise
Third, once we make the promise, do it! As we honor our promises time after time, we build trust, respect, and loyalty from others. Once we’ve completed the promise, at times it is wise to follow-up with the person we promised it to and simple say “As promised, I completed………” This will help people who are very busy notice our efforts and commitments. This will prove to them that they can count on us. This will build our credibility, reputation, and trust.

#4 Hold Ourselves Responsible
Finally, fourth, we must take responsibility for our commitments and efforts regardless if we had total control over the outcome or not. Studies have shown that it is rarely helpful to blame others, external circumstances, or bad luck for not fulfilling promises. What’s needed when things go wrong is honesty rather than blame or denial. For example we can say something like “I was there. I gave my best effort in trying to complete what I promised and it didn’t turn out as planned. Here are my ideas now moving forward.” Though it’s difficult, owning up to mistakes again builds and strengthens relationships of trust and respect and will define us as leaders.

Fulfilling promises and completing commitments is difficult, but by following the suggestions above, we will build relationships of trust and respect and become more effective and powerful leaders. You can do it, Good Luck!