How much should you “correct” when small details are missed (misspellings, misinformation, lack of attention to detail)?
You and Me and OCD
Some people say I care too much about details, but I firmly believe they are wrong. Maybe I have a touch of detail OCD, but that’s because I understand one fundamental truth:
Details matter.
Everything—whether it’s a product, service, or blog post—is a sum of its parts. When the small things come together, they create something much larger. This isn’t about having OCD; it’s about leading with excellence.
Everything Communicates
As a professional communicator, I’ve learned that everything I do on stage communicates something. My words, my appearance, even the tiniest details like spelling errors in my notes or presentations—everything says something about who I am and what I value.
Everything communicates.
Imagine reading this post and finding typos. What would you think? How would you feel about my expertise and advice? That’s why details matter.
When you lead an individual or team that isn’t paying enough attention to detail, it’s time to act.
6 Tips for Leading People to Pay Better Attention to Details
1. Cast Vision for Your Position
It’s crucial to communicate why details matter. If your team doesn’t understand the importance of getting the small things right, they may become complacent. Use examples, like spelling errors or a messy lobby, to illustrate how everything communicates. Make sure your team understands that attention to detail isn’t just a quirk—it’s an organizational standard of excellence.
2. Offer Supporting Tools
Not everyone is naturally detail-oriented, and that’s okay. If a team member struggles with details, provide them with tools to help. For example, I use Grammarly to catch spelling errors and AI tools to manage other details. Offer support, cast vision for improvement, and provide the tools they need to succeed.
3. Embrace that Perfection is the Perversion of Great
Perfection is an unrealistic standard. When your team feels that only perfection is acceptable, they may become paralyzed, delaying projects and avoiding risks. Aim for excellence, but be realistic. Encourage your team to strive for their best while understanding that occasional mistakes are a part of growth.
4. Focus On Repeated Mistakes More Than Initial Errors
People will make mistakes; it’s part of being human. But repeated mistakes indicate a bigger issue. When errors happen, acknowledge them, offer support, and help your team members avoid making the same mistake twice. If the same errors keep happening, it’s time to address the underlying problem.
5. Evaluate the People-to-Position Connection
Not everyone is suited for every role. Some people are naturally detail-oriented, while others are more big-picture thinkers. If you’ve placed a low-detail person in a high-detail role, expect frustration—for both of you. Evaluate whether the person is in the right position and make changes if necessary.
6. Work On Your Details (and Own Your Mistakes)
No leader is perfect, and that includes you. When you make a mistake, own it. Use it as a learning opportunity for yourself and your team. Integrity matters, and being transparent about your efforts to improve will encourage your team to do the same.
Conclusion
Details will always be missed—that’s a reality of life and work. But as leaders, it’s our job to help our teams understand why details matter and provide them with the tools and support they need to improve.
If a team member can’t adjust to a detail-oriented role after adequate support, it may be time to reassign them or let them go. Remember, your mission is to move your organization forward, not to cater to individual preferences.
Did this conversation bring someone to mind? If so, use these tips to guide them toward greater attention to detail.
Call to Action
If you’re ready to grow your leadership, team, and organization, don’t ignore the missed details. Start focusing on the little things today.
Quotes for Inspiration
- “The difference between something good and something great is attention to detail.” – Charles R. Swindoll
- “Details create the big picture.” – Sanford I. Weill
Resources for Further Learning
- The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande: Learn how simple checklists can reduce errors and improve outcomes.
- Made to Stick by Chip Heath and Dan Heath: Discover how small details make ideas stick in people’s minds.
One More Thing…
If you found this helpful, please pass it along to anyone in your circle of influence who would benefit. Most leaders are overwhelmed with daily tasks, leaving little time for innovation, creativity, and strategic growth.
Check out gavinadams.com for more information. I offer systemic coaching and organizational consulting for leaders like you.
If you are a church leader, visit the Church Accelerator Community: Coaching, community, and content to help you work on your church, not just in your church.
Leading WITH You,
