Encyclopedia of Leadership

HOW TO USE THIS LEADERSHIP TOOL

“All commerce, both social and economic, is based on the principal of exchange—giving something

and getting something else.”

—Susan Campbell, FROM CHAOS TO CONFIDENCE

These selectedelements are taken from the Accountability Agreement of a manager of a natu-

ral gas processing facility. They are provided as examples of the type of information typically

contained in an Accountability Agreement.

 Business Statement:My business is producing and processing raw natural gas to mar-

ketable products in a way that is safe, is environmentally responsible, maximizes long-

term profit, and enhances XYZ’s image as a positive contributor in the state.

 Accountabilities:I am personally accountable for:

Operational accountabilities: A safe operation. The long-term protection of the

asset; achieving production, quality standards, and targets.

Leadership accountabilities: The success of my direct reports; my own learning as

a leader.

 Support Statement:Three additional engineers on project XYZ. A LAN hookup within

the department during the first quarter. Funding for consulting help during project

XYZ start-up.

Measures:Lost time accidents, volume throughputs, new contracts, improvements to

services.

Goals:A 9% return on capital during the 3rd quarter. Complete plant turnaround by

May 1st.

Consequences:I will be funded to attend the international petroleum show in Houston

next year.

I will receive a salary increase equivalent to those of the top 5% of employees.

Evergreen Plan:I will review my Accountability Agreement quarterly within the work-

group and make changes, as appropriate, within one week of each review meeting.

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Write a first draft of your Accountability Agreement, or coach an employee to do the same.

[☛1.10 The GAS Model]

400 SECTION 13 TOOLS FORLEADINGPERFORMANCE

Goal statements

Consequences

Evergreen plan

✔ Flowing out of your accountabilities, write specific and measurable or observable goals for a

given time period.

✔ Summarize an agreement on the positive consequences that you will receive (i.e., rewards,

recognition, compensation) for fulfilling your accountabilities and reaching your goals.

✔ Prepare a plan to keep your Accountability Agreement up to date so that the business bargain

between you and your employer remains clear, vibrant, and mutually rewarding.

Business focus statement