Don’t finish people’s sentences. It’s just another way of saying ‘shush’

SIX FROM THE BEST
As chief executive of the Camphill Village Trust, Sara Thakkar helps to provide opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and autism to live active, independent lives in one of the charity’s nine rural centres. Here she shares her gentle but impactful lessons for effective management.1. It’s OK to change your mind. I’m a great advocate of sleeping on stuff; you can gain clarity and process without constraint, returning to overturn a decision for the better.
2. Don’t finish people’s sentences. It’s patronising — it’s just another way of saying “ssshhh”. It may also shut down a helpful line of thought you weren’t expecting.
3. You’ll sink if you can’t let your teams crack on. Creating a culture of trust and empowerment is key to progress. Yes, there will be times when decisions need layers of process and oversight but this shouldn’t be the norm.
4. Don’t be over-impressed by the loudest voice in the room. It may well belong to someone in a position of power but often it is quieter people who effect meaningful change. Seek their opinion.
5. Curiosity is a muscle that needs to be exercised. If you’re not naturally curious, act as if you are — and soon that strength should develop. Curiosity can generate all sorts of business opportunities and solutions.
6. There IS such a thing as a bad idea. Often you hear “there are no bad ideas”, usually in a brainstorming situation. It’s important to set a non-judgemental tone but if you really think an idea is awful, address it as diplomatically as possible. It’s a real waste of time to pursue a non-starter.