On my way into work every day I pass under an arched underpass and there’s a railroad track that goes across it. I’ve always noticed a bright yellow sign with the height of the underpass shown on it, but today I noticed something that I’m sure has been there for years.
There’s a little tiny sign that has two words on it that are super important, “in center”, meaning it’s the center of the this arched underpass that’s that height.
It occurred to me that something that important maybe should be much bigger, or maybe it’s just common sense, I don’t know, but it made me think that in life when we’re told to read the fine print, whether it’s literally or figuratively, noticing the things that might normally escape our view, making sure that we notice everything around the central message of something, whether it’s something somebody is saying or literally a sign we’re reading, that reading the fine print can save a whole lot of problems.
As leaders, this idea applies in more ways than we might realize. Paying attention to the “fine print” in conversations, decisions, and workplace dynamics can prevent misunderstandings and lead to better outcomes. Here are three ways leaders can sharpen their attention to the details that matter:
- Listen Beyond the Obvious: When team members speak, there’s often an unspoken message beneath their words. Pay attention to tone, body language, and what isn’t being said. Leaders who notice subtle cues can address concerns before they become larger issues.
- Clarify Expectations Up Front: Just like that small but important sign, critical details in projects, policies, or agreements can be easy to miss. Before launching an initiative, double-check that everyone understands not just the big picture, but also the details that could affect success.
- Encourage a Culture of Awareness: Make it a habit to ask your team, “What are we missing?” or “Is there anything we’re overlooking?” Small details—whether in strategy, client relationships, or workplace culture—can be the difference between success and costly missteps.
The fine print often holds the key to making informed decisions and avoiding unnecessary challenges. By training ourselves to notice what might otherwise go unseen, we improve not just our leadership but also the experience of those we lead.