Ask 10 leaders for their definition of “leadership” and you’ll likely hear 10 diverse responses. Even top researchers in the field differ, as evidenced by the shelves and shelves of books on the topic – each slightly varied from the one next to it.
We all know good (and, unfortunately, poor) leadership when we see it, but what really contributes to leader success?
As you pursue your leadership path, consider these 3 must-do’s:
1. Leaders must create a clear, engaging vision.
In his book The One Thing You Need To Know, strengths expert Marcus Buckingham states leadership simply: “Great leaders rally people to a better future.” A key factor involves creating a clear and vivid vision of that “better future,” one that excites and energizes your team and that serves a magnet.
Seek your team’s input in designing that vision, then crystallize it using stories, past successes, and all 5 senses. Nothing can stop a motivated team moving together towards a strong, positive vision.
2. Leaders must leverage individual strengths.
There’s a saying, “Never try to teach a pig to sing – it wastes your time and annoys the pig.” We experience the same results when we try to force people to take on tasks that weaken or deplete them.
Instead, invest the time to learn your team member’s individual strengths, then play to them as much as possible. Your organized, detail-oriented committee member may thrive at planning the specifics of the next event and handle it within an hour, whereas your big-picture, innovative member might procrastinate, drag her feet, and do a less-than-stellar job with that same task.
3. Leaders must actively listen.
Listening is different from hearing or (ouch) the old “nod-and-smile” technique. Active listening allows you to catch details and nuances that you’ll miss if you’re only thinking about what to say next.
More importantly, active listening lets your team member know that her ideas matter – that she matters.
Whenever possible, take the necessary actions to ensure a quiet, mindful meeting experience. Turn off distractions, practice eye contact, ask follow-up questions. Think of the last time you were truly listened to, then model that with your team members.
And the absolutely-must-not-do?
Don’t make assumptions. Don’t assume that because you’re clear about your vision that your team is, too. And don’t assume that just because someone is good at something, he is strengthened by it or enjoys it. Exceptional leaders go deeper than assumptions, and they are rewarded in myriad ways for it.
What must-do’s, or must-not-do’s, would you add to this? Share your thoughts below or on our Facebook page.
Dr. Christi Hegstad helps you successfully do what you love! As President of MAP Professional Development Inc., she coaches business owners and leaders to get unstuck and reach their highest potential with clarity, confidence, and meaningful action. Learn more at www.meaning-and-purpose.com and follow Dr. Christi on Facebook and Twitter.