The “Call Five People” Rule

Isolation is destructive security. Use the “Call Five People” rule to shatter your silo.

When You Lead in Isolation

1. Perception narrows.
2. Judgment dulls.
3. Mistakes multiply.
4. Influence shrinks.
5. Doubt amplifies.
6. Ego solidifies.
7. Failure compounds.

The Rule

Spend 10 minutes with five different people.

Explain the situation.

Say, “My current thinking is…”

Ask questions like…

1. After hearing this, what comes to mind for you?
2. What am I overlooking?
3. If you were me, your first move tomorrow morning would be…?
4. If I fail, what did I leave undone?
5. What must be done first?

Call Five People When

#1. You’ve circled the same problem for 48 hours. When you’re confused, talk with five people who believe in you.

#2. You wonder how. Call five people who have done it.

#3. You’re second-guessing. Connect with five people who know your strengths.

#4. You’re at a crossroads. Speak with people who ask great questions.

#5. The deadline for a major decision is pressing. Ask what if I do nothing?

#6. A high-stakes conversation is around the corner. Seek great relationship builders.

#7. You earned a promotion. Ask, “What’s the key to success over the next 90 days?”

Potential Members of Your “Call Five People” Roster

1. The Sage: A mentor or leader with insight and experience.
2. The Contrarian: A person who practices constructive dissent.
3. The Peer: Someone who is in the trenches with you.
4. The Outsider: Someone removed from your industry. Seek a human reality check.
5. The Frontline: A team member directly impacted by this issue.
6. The Dreamer: This person usually says, “What about…” Or “We could…”
7. The Doer: Someone who always finishes what they start.
8. The Feeler: An empath who feels what others feel.

When should leaders utilize the “Call Five People” rule?

Who do you suggest for the roster? Not on the roster?

Read: The Three Power-People You Need on Your Team

Author’s note: The idea of calling five people came from my friend Stan Endicott.