The common thread.
WHY URGENCY IS USED
It prevents verification.
Someone who takes twenty minutes to check does not fall for it.
WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE
An immediate deadline A threatened consequence An opportunity expiring An emergency
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU FEEL PRESSURED
Stop.
That feeling is the signal.
THE RULE
The more urgent a request, the more verification it warrants.
That is the opposite of what urgency makes you want to do.
WHAT LEGITIMATE BUSINESS RARELY REQUIRES
A decision within minutes, with no opportunity to check.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
That deadlines do not override procedures.
WHAT TO TELL STAFF
That delaying to verify is always acceptable, and that you will support them for doing it.
WHAT UNDERMINES THAT
A manager who becomes impatient when questioned.
Staff learn from behaviour, not policy.
WHAT TO DO
Model the verification yourself.
