Accountability is something people choose when they feel clear, supported, and trusted. That starts with defined expectations: what the outcome is, how success gets measured, and when it's due. Check-ins work better when they lead with curiosity. "What's challenging you most right now?" opens a conversation. "Why isn't this done yet?" shuts one down. When someone takes ownership, recognize it with specifics. A generic "good job" doesn't stick. A specific one does.