Do you get frustrated by things that don’t seem to happen the way they’re supposed to? People are milling about, but nothing gets accomplished. In the hustle, do you feel that your goals remain just that – goals?
Maybe its time for you to stand up and do something about it.
Most people are content to sit around waiting for orders. It’s not difficult adopt a follow-the-leader mentality. Maybe that doesn’t work for you. You have a desire to make things happen – to be the head, not the tail. Maybe leadership suits you.
Some people believe that great leaders are born, not made. While it may be true some people are born with natural ability, without practice, drive and experience, it’s difficult to develop leadership.Good leaders continually work and study to improve their skills.
What is a leader?
To be a leader, you must be able to influence others to accomplish a an objective. The leader contributes to the organization and cohesion of a group.
Contrary to what many believe, leadership is not about power. It is not about harassing or bullying people using fear. It is about encouraging others towards the goal. A leader brings unity of purpose, keeping everyone informed. You must be a leader not a boss.
How do you get people to follow?
People follow a clear sense of purpose. People will only follow you if they see you know where you are going. You know the bumper sticker, “Don’t follow me, I’m lost too.” The same holds for leadership. If you don’t know where you’re going, people will not want to follow you.
You have to have a clear vision of the “big picture”. Have a clear sense of hierarchy, know who’s who, understand the goals and objectives, and how the thing works. Then, others feel confident you know what you’re doing.
Leadership is not about what you make others do. It’s about who you are, what you know, and what you do. You are a reflection of what you want those following to be.
Another basis of good leadership is trust and confidence. If people trust you they will follow through difficulties to achieve the objectives.Trust and confidence is built on good relationships,transparency, and ethics.
The manner in which you deal with people and the relationships you build will lay a strong foundation for your group. The stronger your relationship, the stronger the trust and confidence in your capabilities.
Communication is third key to good leadership. Without this you can not be a good leader. There are 10 key communications principles every leader should know and use
- Everything communicates.
- The golden rule works.
- Stand for something.
- Everyone wants to be heard.
- One size does not fit all.
- They both end in “tion” but there’s a big difference between “information” and “communication.”
- Communicate courageously.
- Remember the competition.
- If it looks important, it must be important.
- Good communication is a good investment.
Leaders are not do-it-all heroes. You should not claim to know everything and should not rely upon your skills alone.
You should recognize and take advantage of the skills and talents of others. Only when you come to this realization will you be able to work as one cohesive unit.
Being a leader takes work and time. It is not learned overnight. It is not about just you. It is about you and the people around you.
Do you have the drive and desire to serve to be a leader? Do you have the desire to work cooperatively with other people? Start now. Take your stand and become a leader today.