You’ve heard the term ‘a born leader’? Whilst leadership skills can be innate, there are skills and attributes that can be learnt and developed.
There are many different styles of leadership: personality, purpose and aspiration all play a role in determining that style. There is no ‘perfect’ when it comes to leadership – all leaders make mistakes. But what they do have in common is a clear sense of vision, they live by values and they keep people aligned.
No matter what kind of leadership role you are placed in – or seeking – there is the opportunity for great leadership in the following:
Example – If you want others to follow, you absolutely have to lead by example. You simply must be, live and act 100% on the values of the business – people are looking to you for guidance on how to operate based on the values.
And, simply, if you do not practise what you preach then there will be a loss of trust with the team.
My father said many times when I was a child – “Do what I say, not what I do…” Dad, quite frankly, what a crock – show me how and I can replicate it.
Patience – When it comes to the influence of leadership, something has to be said about patience. Without proper patience a leader can become exasperated and end up frustrated and uninspiring. It’s important to realise that people aren’t all learning at the same pace – and some take a longer to grasp concepts, ideas and opportunities.
Patience is a virtue that can help lead others forward – consistency over and over, with a tad of empathy, whilst focused on the outcome is the formula for success.
Empowerment of others – People often ask me, “But how did you hand over the business to the CEO?” My answer, “It was very, very easy (too easy perhaps).”
Simply, I have worked side by side with her for half a decade; I know who she is and what she stands for. I know she is clever, strategic and analytical. So when something comes across my desk, I simply ask the question, “Whose job is this?”
I don’t see this as delegation – it is ensuring that I don’t disenfranchise my colleague.
Where do you sit with these leadership ideals? Let me know.