“It doesn’t make sense to hire smart people and then tell them what to do. We hire smart people so they can tell us what to do.” – Steve Jobs

Yea yea - I know Steve Jobs.  You cannot deny this one lands! 

There's a lot to unpack here, so let's get started.

1. Ego

Leaders need to get comfortable with not being the smartest person in the room. Fill that room with people brighter than you! Fill it with employees who impress the hell out of you. And above all—don’t just be comfortable—be excited by that room!

2. Right person, right seat

We need to hire the right people for the right job. Plain and simple. Then, trust them. If they’re not the right fit, move on, or move them to another role—whatever it takes. But focus on getting the skills and the person you need in the right position.

3. Smart people don’t need you up in their business

The last thing a high performer needs is a manager who doesn’t know shit telling them step by step what to do. Instead, learn what that person needs to thrive. Set goals with them, support them. Don’t try to flex and show you know more than you do. They’re the expert—they’ll see you coming a mile away. This will damage your credibility.

4. Listen

If one of these smart people comes to you with ideas or suggestions, listen! Don’t dismiss them. Don’t make it about yourself. We get it—maybe the suggestion is wild, maybe it costs a truckload of cash you don’t have. But listen! Provide feedback. If you shut it down without thought or change the subject to stay on task, you’ll deflate that person.

To sum it up: check that ego. Hire and listen to people smarter than you. Imagine the outcome…