One very hard to miss pitfall is making the decision that you know what's best for your tribe. Typically it happens because you have stopped listening. It's also easily remedied by...listening.

It can happen as a result of focusing narrowly on the bottom line, the needs of the project or organization overall, it can come as a result of efforts to demonstrate worth to superiors or simply having confidence in knowing how to do your job well. No blame for any of these reasons, they are well intentioned. It is important to have a grasp on the end goal and overall strategy. It is commendable to want to work hard and be recognized for your efforts. You need confidence in what you bring to the table in order to deliver a valuable service.

The problem comes when any or all of these factors get in the way of the organization's ability to listen to what supporters, customers or clients want and need. The pulse on the community is lost.

So as many of us learned from the crossing guards or in safety town...stop, look and listen.