You've heard the phrase "You can give a man a fish and feed him for a day or teach him how to fish and feed him for a lifetime."
In our fast-paced world, effective empowering and leadership aren't just nice-to-haves—they're essential. That's why I created the FISH strategy: Focus, Instruct, Supervise, Hand-Off. This approach gives you a clear, structured roadmap for developing skills in your team, whether they're fresh faces or seasoned pros. Taking the time to go through all four steps of the FISH strategy will ensure that your people can feed themselves.
Focus: Clarify what you're teaching
First things first—get laser-focused on what you want your employee to learn. This step is what you do before meeting with the employee. Define the skill clearly in your head and know why it matters. For example, if you’re teaching your team how to operate a new CNC machine, break it down—what are the must-know steps? Where do people typically trip up? And how does this fit into the bigger picture? Here are some fun questions to consider in this step:
1. What specifically do you want them to learn?
2. How does this fit into the big picture or overall work process?
3. What are the 3-5 most essential steps?
4. What 2-3 mistakes do people normally make?
5. What are the goals/expectations you have for the employee?
6. What is the timeline you have for the employee?
7. How will the employee be evaluated?
8. Do you have the right resources to help the employee be successful?
Instruct: Show them how to do it
Once you’ve set the stage, it’s time to dive into instruction. Break the skill down into bite-sized steps and walk them through each one. Show them, don’t just tell them. If you’re teaching a machine setup, guide them through adjusting settings and inputting specifications. And while you’re at it, layer in related skills—like public speaking. Know your employee, use their name, and keep your language clear. Adjust your approach depending on the person. Some need it straightforward, while others thrive with a bit of fun or detail.
Supervise: Coach them as they do it
Now it's time to let them do it as you watch. As your employee starts applying what they’ve learned, stick close by. Watch as they set up the machine, offering guidance and corrections on the spot. This is where you stop bad habits before they start. Think of this as coaching—engage in discussions that tie their practice to broader skills. Observe how they’re doing it, and keep an eye out for teachable moments. Remember, supervision isn’t just about overseeing—it’s about leading and guiding.
Hand Off: Give it over to them
Finally, it’s time to step back and let them take charge. After a few rounds of supervised practice, encourage them to run with it on their own. Offer support, but trust them to own the process. For example, once they’re comfortable with the machine, let them operate it solo while you stay available for questions. This is also your moment to delegate—an often overlooked but crucial leadership skill. Don’t let insecurities or past failures hold you back. Trust your employee, let them grow, and focus on the results, not the process.
The FISH strategy—Focus, Instruct, Supervise, Hand-Off—is a perfect tool for helping your people grow. By becoming clear on what you want, showing them from the beginning to the end, guiding their practice, and then handing off, you set your employees up for success by empowering them. Remember, your goal isn’t just to give them a fish...it's to teach them how to fish.
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