No More Surprises!

In my work coaching executives and leadership teams, I often hear frustration when problems seem to appear “out of nowhere.”

But the truth is-most surprises aren’t surprises at all.

There are really three types of surprises

1. Something happens completely out of the blue. A lighting strike.

2. You know what is going to happen, but the amplitude is either more of less than expected.

3. You know what is going to happen, but it either happens earlier or later than expected.

The first type is rare.

But look closely at the second and third. Both could have been predicted with better information and earlier communication.

That’s why I often tell leaders: if you want fewer surprises, go see what’s really happening.

The Power of Rounding for Performance

One of the most effective ways to gather timely, meaningful information is through rounding.

Many leaders round. Few do it effectively.

Too often, it becomes a routine formality. A quick walk-through to “check-in” rather than a deliberate practice to learn and connect.

When done with intention, rounding becomes one of the your best tools for alignment, awareness and proactive leadership.

Three Principles for Effective Rounding

1. Be Predictably Present

Your team should know when to expect you. Not the exact time, but the general window of your intended visit. Predictable presence builds trust and signals that you’re consistently engaged, not just showing up when there is a problem.

2. Have a Proactive Vision

Before you round, identify what you want to learn or confirm. Don’t just ask, “Hows it going?” or “Do you need anything?”

Try coaching questions like:

“What challenges are slowing the process?”

“What’s getting in the way of meeting our goals?”

“What trends are you noticing?”

These questions create insight and invite real dialogue.

3. Build a Plan Before Fixing Problems

Gather input from across the team before acting. Then prioritize what needs to be addressed, by when and by whom. A coordinated plan turns feedback into meaningful improvement.

Rounding done well is Leadership in motion. You’re present, listening, learning and aligning your team before small issues become big surprises.

So before the next challenge catches you off guard, remember:

Go see. Real places, Real people, Real issues.

No More Surprises.

Shannon Stewart is an executive coach who helps leaders align strategy, culture and performance to accelerate organizational results.