enforcer.jpgEvery organization, every team, needs an enforcer. The enforcer makes sure promises are kept, commitments are followed through on, and pledges and assurances are met. Without someone to play the role of enforcer, it is too easy for standards to drop, hot air to pass for purposeful action, and good intentions to take the place of desired results. Good enforcers tend to have high internal standards, powerful moral compasses, strong personalities, a passion for order, good communication skills, a deep sense of correctness, and a love of precision.

I was reminded of the importance of every organization’s need for an enforcer when reading about one of Michelle Obama’s roles in one of President Obama’s early campaigns. (New York Times Magazine, November 1, 2009.)

“’Michelle sometimes took on the role of enforcer. If a volunteer promised to gather 300 petition signatures, 299 did not work because 300 was the goal. You met the wrath of Michelle.’”

Accountability is vital to the success of any endeavor. If not assiduously maintained and reenforced, standards erode. The role of enforcer in success is often overlooked. It needs more respect and should be more widely adopted.