OK. So how do you do it? Lead.
I imagine that is one of the reasons for visiting this blog site; find out something about leading and leadership. I will do my best to be brilliant. If not brilliant, I will at least share some thoughts I think may prove relevant.
For nearly forty years I have been teaching and doing leadership. And one thing I know for sure, there is some significantly poor leadership out there. And, I am unclear as-to-why. A walk through any reasonably well-stocked bookstore shows no shortage of books on leadership and how-to manuals. Leadership seminars and workshops appear to be a growth business. So lets see what we can do to better grasp how to lead and avoid the bad leadership void. And, do it within the time it takes to drink a cup of coffee.
I propose those who want to lead should be aware of five suggestions: (1) get ready to lead, (2) step forward into leadership, (3) play an active role in the leadership process, (4) ensure you have all that is necessary to lead, and (5) lead. I will expand.
(1) Get ready to lead. Preparing to lead is a lifetime activity. Leading requires commitment to organizational and individual goals. Successful leaders are able to achieve organizational goals while simultaneously assisting individuals in achieving theirs. Not an easy task; however, it is fundamental to leadership. Any approach that does not attend to both individual and organizational goals borders on manipulation. Leadership is all about people. Leaders lead people, managers manage things.
(2) Step forward. When asked who the leader is, unhesitatingly say, “I am.” Seek opportunities in which to lead. Do not stand back, lean into the action. Leadership is needed at all organizational levels.
(3) Be part of the process. Leadership is a process activity. Know how much leadership to apply, and of what type. Supporting others’ leadership is part of the leadership process. It is not always about you. Remember you may be the star of your own movie, but you are only a supporting actor in other peoples’.
(4) Ensure you have the required materials with which to lead. Don’t show up to lead empty handed. Make certain you can influence the situation. For want of a nail, the empire was lost. The best fire chief will fail miserably as a leader if he or she fails to show up at the burning building with the fire engines.
(5) Lead. Leaders lead, it is as simple as that. Anyone can stand on the sidewalk and watch the parade go by. Leaders are part of the action.
Where are you leading today?
Author:
Tom Matyók, Ph.D.
Conflict Studies and Dispute Resolution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
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