What exactly is leadership? I’ve asked a number of colleagues recently and received a variety of different answers. Put in “leadership books” on the Amazon.com website and you will receive 57,849 entries. Here is one definition:
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“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way.” |
Many people feel we are in a leadership crisis. The news carries stories almost daily of politicians and business leaders behaving unethically. It is time for leaders to step up who will help lead us out of our current economic downturn.
Here are a few key tips on improving your leadership skills that seem to be recurrent themes from multiple sources:
- Create a Strategic Vision – Leaders need to be able to articulate the way the organization will look in the future. This needs to be based on seeing the “big picture” and the environmental forces and trends that impact their industry.
- Communicate Clearly – The vision must be communicated clearly, logically and with excitement. People want to succeed and go in the right direction, but they need to know which direction and the definition of success.
- Obtain Resources – People, material, systems, and processes need to be in place to successfully carry out the vision.
- Empower Others – Once you have communicated your vision, a leader must trust employees and empower them to act. People respond to praise and encouragement to continue to push towards accomplishments.
- Behave Ethically – Organizational leaders must take action within ethical standards. Ethical leaders inspire respect and trust and become a role model for others to emulate.
The time for strong leadership is now. Will you be the one who steps up to lead in your organization or community?
Why not get started with feedback and plans to improve your leadership style with the 363 for Leaders program.To discuss your training plan, contact us at info@ManagementSkillsInc.com or call 972 881-5282.