What does ACCOUNTABILITY look like for a 3M Chem Ops People Leader?
Accountability is making expectations clear, owning outcomes, and following through—every time.
Accountable leaders make ownership unmistakably clear.
Accountability-based actions:
Clearly define outcomes, not just tasks.
Assign clear ownership for priorities and deliverables.
Confirm understanding of expectations and deadlines.
Track progress against commitments.
Remove obstacles that prevent results.
Hold yourself accountable for team outcomes.
“I know what I own—and my leader owns their part too.”
Accountable leaders expect better ways of working and act on them.
Accountability-based actions:
Ask for ideas to improve results and processes.
Expect teams to bring solutions, not just problems.
Use data to evaluate performance and gaps.
Encourage ownership for improvements across boundaries.
Hold teams accountable for testing and learning.
Act on improvement opportunities, not just discuss them.
“We don’t just talk about improvement—we act on it.”
Accountable leaders ensure commitments turn into action.
Accountability-based actions:
Set standards for quality and performance.
Confirm ownership, timelines, and success criteria.
Follow up consistently on commitments.
Address missed expectations quickly and directly.
Use structured problem-solving when results fall short.
Reinforce accountability fairly and consistently.
“Commitments matter here.”
Accountable leaders build ownership without fear.
Accountability-based actions:
Involve the team in setting goals and commitments.
Encourage ownership rather than compliance.
Recognize follow-through and reliability.
Coach people through obstacles instead of rescuing them.
Build confidence by reinforcing responsibility.
Develop future leaders by expanding ownership.
“I’m trusted to own my work.”
Accountable leaders act with fairness and integrity.
Accountability-based actions:
Apply standards consistently across all roles.
Address issues respectfully and privately when needed.
Avoid blame; focus on learning and solutions.
Admit mistakes openly and correct them.
Hold tough conversations with professionalism and care.
Reinforce ethical and respectful behavior.
“Accountability is fair, not personal.”