Lessons in Leadership

I’ll be the first to admit, I’m out of shape.  Specifically, when it comes to writing – what were you thinking?  Thankfully I have a supporter in this area giving me a deadline and challenging me to get back in shape.  So here goes the first of a regular monthly series return of Wednesday Words.  

I recently had the honor of presenting in my company a Leadership Development session titled “Nourishing Greatness.”  To prepare I reflected on my own leadership journey and lessons learned along the way.  I’ve highlighted some of the skills I’ve come to find are most valuable for Leaders.

Be Authentic

This all boils down to “be who you say you are.”  I’ve seen it too often people literally change their personality based on meeting up or down the chain of authority.  In most cases those worlds do collide and it’s not good.  People will respect and listen to someone they feel is shooting straight with them versus someone with an agenda.

Build Relationships

Developing my internal (work) and external (beyond work) networks have had the greatest impact on my success.  Starting early in my Graduate School days as a Hall Director, I knew that at 2:00 a.m. the most important people in the world were either Campus Police or Maintenance.  Get to know people beyond just “when you need them.”  Solid relationships create Trust between people and where there is Trust, there is Speed.

Be Curious

I’ve recently discovered Ted Lasso and am completely won over.  His style of Leadership is worth the study.  In one scene he quotes Walt Whitman; “Be curious, not judgmental.”  So simple, yet so powerful.  Before jumping to conclusions in a situation, take a moment to consider all possibilities, even better, ask for clarification.  

Maintain & Enhance Self-Esteem

A powerful lesson that can be challenging.  Aligned to the skills above, Leadership really is all about relationships.  When meeting with people, it’s important that you maintain or enhance the person’s self-esteem through your interactions.  Tearing people down, even with the best intentions will have residual effects.  Despite being right or wrong, people will remember how you made them feel, and that lasts longer than whatever the topic being discussed. 

The above lessons might seem simple in nature, but I’ve found they’re not as common as one would hope.  I do believe there is a trait that underscores all the above. It can often be an Achilles heel to many, self-confidence.  Confident leaders know what they are doing and stay grounded when things don’t go according to plan.  Being confident in one’s role as a leader is essential and creates an environment where people feel valued, heard and are willing to follow.  See you next month!