Way too many people equate a position with leadership, and lead by the “I say so” method. Sadly, those kinds of leaders don’t get very far without leaving a trail of broken relationships behind them.
The best leadership is by influence. When followers know that you care, that you are competent, and you are consistent, the “loyalty” effect comes in to play.
So, what can you do to insure loyalty? Here are four steps.
1) Make sure everyone has a voice. A working principle that always works is understanding that “all of us are smarter than any one of us.”
2) Understand that everyone has a different gift mix, a different set of strengths. Work to help everyone play to their strengths. How many times have organizations had good people in the wrong jobs?
3) Learn to clarify issues. If you are the leader, make sure you know how to ask the right questions.
4) Be sure you know what business you are in. At the turn of the 20th century, some companies saw themselves in the horse and buggy business; others saw themselves in the transportation industry. Only the latter survived.
A clear picture of what you want to accomplish and who can best make it happen coupled with an honest concern for the people you lead will help you become the best leader you can be.
For those of you in leadership, do people follow you out of fear or out of loyalty?
Glad to see you post on Leadership. I needed this. Feel free to Blog out more nuggets on this! Thanks
ReplyDeleteTommy, thanks for your kind words. I will take that suggestion.
DeleteThanks Jerry! I needed this one. Feel free to post more Nuggets on Leadership!
ReplyDeleteJerry--Would love for you to expand on number 3.
ReplyDeleteCharles, look for an upcoming post. Thanks, Jerry
DeleteJerry thanks for being our teacher. I agree with your assessment of the benefits of running. It also makes a person more aware of their surroundings and provides an excellent opportunity for prayer. I am a jogger not a runner, and have a two mile limit. Your brother in Christ, Joel Aldape
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