4 Things Leaders Should Do to Build a Culture of Accountability

Liz Short of Short Solutions with women holding Get Sh!t Done stickers

Why Are Struggling Teams Actually Struggling?

One common culprit: a lack of accountability.

Accountability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the glue that keeps teams aligned, productive, and moving forward. Without it, even the best hiring, vision-setting, and goal-planning won’t get you very far.

If you’re ready to turn things around, here are four actionable steps leaders should use to build a culture of accountability—whether your team is thriving or barely hanging on.

(Spoiler: It’s all about communication, consistency, and a little room for failure.)

People sitting at a wooden table in a meeting, holding pens and notepads. Sunlight filters in, creating a focused and collaborative atmosphere.

1. Clearly Define What Success Looks Like

Your team can’t deliver what they don’t understand. Set clear expectations and outline what a “win” looks like for everyone involved. When success is specific, measurable, and transparent, it’s much easier for the team to stay on track.

2. Explain the Bigger Picture

Accountability thrives when people understand the “why” behind their work. Connect the dots between the team’s efforts and the organization’s larger goals. Help them see how their contributions matter—and how their success ties into the big vision.

3. Set a Schedule and Stick to It

Consistency builds trust. Establish a regular cadence for check-ins with your team, and stick to it. Don’t be the leader who constantly cancels or reschedules—it sends the wrong message. Instead, make those check-ins sacred to foster reliability and accountability.

4. Be Available and Embrace Imperfection

Accountability doesn’t mean expecting perfection (spoiler: it doesn’t exist). Create an environment where your team feels supported and safe to learn from mistakes. When failure is seen as a stepping stone rather than a setback, growth happens faster—and accountability becomes second nature.

Without accountability, progress stalls, teams flounder, and goals remain out of reach.

Ready to transform your team?

Start by weaving these steps into your leadership approach.

Remember: you can’t Get Sh!t Done without accountability.

How are you fostering accountability within your organization?

Drop your thoughts below!