Leading With Style

When was the last time you thought about what kind of leader you are? It is very important to recognize that people follow people not rules. People follow for many reasons, so thinking that a title will suffice is very dangerous. One reason people follow is because followers want a leader that will accomplish something meaningful. A leader may be chosen because of his or her focus on effectiveness and ability to implement a performance plan with goals that are shared.

Followers want a point person who can resolve tough issues. A leader's boldness distinguishes him or her from others in the group who understand equally well what needs to be done. Both fortitude and boldness represent characteristics associated with strength. People choose the bold individual because he or she cannot be deterred on the way toward specific goals. They choose the leader high in fortitude for his or her personal strength.

People choose a leader because they believe he or she will help the group succeed. The person good at "team building" is able to overcome differences among members and build consensus about what they want to accomplish and how. People find it fun to work with a leader who makes them feel good about themselves and the contributions they can make to the team. Differences in status can be ignored at times, and the leader is simply one who moves things along and draws out contributions from those involved.



People also want to be inspired. Followers choose leaders because they believe that he or she understands them and offers a response to their needs. The leader's words ring true because followers can relate them to their own experiences. People follow the inspiring leader because they believe their goals are that person's goals and that what the leader achieves will prove advantageous for them. The follower establishes an emotional bond with a leader because he or she feels understood, and the follower is then willing to sacrifice to meet leader-defined goals.

Followers also choose their leaders because they have proven to be trustworthy as servants. They have demonstrated by listening and responding that they place the highest priority on meeting the needs of followers. They have no agenda other than the one identified by the followers, unless it is to protect them from dangers of which they are unaware. The serving leader asks, "What can I do for you?" Servant leadership is not just for the powerless. The leader offers a way for followers to better their lives.

Leadership is a learned skill that needs development. Being a life-long learner will result in continuous improvement. Reading books on leadership is helpful. Learning about your strengths and areas in need of development can help you identify your improvement plan. An easy assessment tool can get you on the right track.

For more information about leadership training contact Doris Young at 800 673-8005 or www.DorisYoungAssociates.com.