We think of many things when the words “Leader” and “Leadership” are used. What should we consider regarding qualities of an Effective leader? I’d like to focus on a few “Es.”
- Education and Experience – Value hard work and knowledge for yourself and others. A fundamental aspect of success in any line of work is having the intelligence, training, and experience to know what the heck you are doing. Don’t count on luck to carry you through.
- Enthusiasm – It may have been a few decades since I was voted “most dynamic cheerleader,” but that loud and proud style stuck with me. If we don’t believe in what we’re doing, why should anyone else? A positive attitude, being energetic, and having fun can be contagious!
- Example – Leaders serve as role models; in particular for what they exhibit day to day… hard work, using common sense, and demonstrating integrity through honesty, doing the right thing, and treating others with respect.
- Elevated self-awareness – Good leaders understand and know themselves. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses and being willing to admit your mistakes is critical to self-leadership. We can gain insight into how others see us by asking for informal feedback.
- Empowering viewpoint – Leaders enable others to learn, grow, and be their best through delegation. If we don’t give “at bats,” how can those on our team get better and hit that home run? It may take more patience, but in the long run, we all benefit.
- Execution – Leaders do what they say they will do. If we’re going to reach our goals, we need to develop a plan, gain commitment from the stakeholders, put our heads down, and get the job done. There may be bumps, mistakes, and course corrections along the way.
- Excellence – I don’t think this means perfection. I find folks that strive for perfection have a difficult time executing. I think it means striving for quality from within our organization with the goal of providing excellence for our customers.
Are you leading with an “E?”
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