Are You Leading, or Just Sitting? – E is for Engage

How often do you find yourself glued to your chair all day? We’ve all been there — meetings pile up, emails pour in, and before you know it the day is gone. You’ve been busy, but have you actually connected with anyone? That’s a red flag.

In my GET UP framework, the “E” stands for Engage. Lasting influence isn’t built through spreadsheets or inbox management. It’s built through real relationships.

Why Getting Up Matters

I’ll admit — there was a time when I hid behind my to-do list. I’d convince myself I was too busy to walk the floor or talk to people. What I didn’t see was that I was neglecting the very skills that turn managers into leaders: emotional intelligence, trust, and the ability to connect.

Facts and logic have their place, but they don’t move people on their own. When you engage with your team and stakeholders, you tap into something deeper — emotion. That’s when your message sticks, and that’s when people feel motivated to act.

Simple Ways to Engage

Engagement doesn’t need to be complicated. A few small shifts can have a huge impact:

• Keep your door open — literally and figuratively. Let your team know there are times when they can drop in. Those casual conversations often surface the best ideas.

• Walk the floor. Take a few minutes to stop by someone’s desk or workspace. Ask about their projects, listen to their challenges, celebrate their wins. It shows you value their work and builds rapport.

• Use stories, not just numbers. When presenting results or updates, frame them in a way that connects to people’s experiences. A good story makes even complex information memorable and meaningful.

The Payoff

Every time you choose to engage, the benefits ripple out. Relationships deepen. People feel more comfortable sharing both successes and problems. Trust grows — and with trust comes innovation. On top of that, you sharpen your own leadership by hearing firsthand what matters to your team.

Final Thought

The next time you feel anchored to your chair, remember the “E” in GET UP. Stand up, walk over to your stakeholders or employees, and start a conversation. Those small acts of engagement might feel like detours, but they’re often the very things that move your projects — and your people — forward.