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I love this time of year. Seems just about everyone is excited that school is starting back - the parents because they have run out of interesting ways to entertain the kids, the teachers because they are excited to have a fresh new set of students to teach and even the kids because they get to see their friends everyday!

I especially find the stories of Kindergartners, 1st and 2nd graders amusing and entertaining. There is such an anticipation of things unknown and things yet to come! The first few weeks require an extra emphasis on making sure everything and everyone is aligned. While there is a lot of excitement, there is also much newness and uncertainty.

Likewise, during the first few months on a new project (or in a new role), extra emphasis is necessary for team members to understand what goals must be accomplished, how the various functions fit together and what is expected in order to be successful. As a leader, it is essential to intentionally focus on achieving team alignment early on. Implement robust team member onboarding. Conduct alignment meetings to get everyone "on the same page". Communicate everything you can possibly think to communicate. During this phase of the project, people are looking for direction. Be sure you provide it.

With the new school year, even with good intentions, we hit potholes. On more than one occasion you discover that your child didn't finish his homework or that there isn't enough milk left; after the kids spill it. Or as you're buckling the seat belt in the car, you'll see the stain on your favorite shirt; but of course there is no time to change it without making the kids late for school and yourself late for an important meeting.

In business, you need to anticipate team potholes too. They are going to occur. Don't let slow decision making, poor communication, ineffective processes and lack of team member recognition derail your project. When your team hits these potholes, have a plan for getting your team back in alignment, quickly. Every day lost to misalignment is more money, time, energy and opportunity down the drain!

My oldest grandson started 2nd grade last week. What an exciting time!