Are you serving as leader, or merely acting as one?
Here are 10 elements to earning the right to lead
So, do you walk the talk?
Ask yourself how those you lead would answer the following questions about you, from rarely (1) to almost always (10). Better yet, ask them. Then discuss it. Nobody’s perfect, and the questions have nested, unspoken, moving parts to them. They are designed to start deep conversations. Not a quick fix it like patching a tire.
My boss:
- Builds trust, mutual consistent respect and support for the team. Inspires and motivates us. Can listen. Only interrupts when necessary.
- Communicates what’s right and what’s wrong about what’s happening, so that we know where we stand at work. No surprises. We can all answer where we are headed, why, how we are all going to get there and how I personally fit into the picture.
- Recognises our strengths and gives us the work we need to stretch us, and is happiest when we are successful and happy. Shows appreciation for kindness as well as performance.
- Asks how we think we might do it better and genuinely considers our ideas. Isn’t scared of looking ignorant.
- Admits mistakes and can say sorry, authentically. Makes it ok for us to admit our mistakes so that we bring them up sooner. Not fun, but we all learn from and benefit from getting onto a blooper fast, before it grows.
- Delivers. When a promise is made, it is treated very seriously. Like appointment times: each one is a promise. Models it, because it is part of being respectful.
- Has the guts to set limits and say no in a skilled and informative way which leaves the other’s dignity intact and with a satisfactory understanding of why.
- Is trustworthy. Integrity is still there, even when nobody is looking.
- Is emotionally resilient and stable and can handle feedback, good and bad. Is working on getting better.
- Is smart. Can spell. Stays fit and eats right.
What are your thoughts on leadership?
Inspired by Jack and Suzy Welch and Brent Beshore.