The High Points Survey on Leadership showed that a lot of people have a lot of different questions about applying and using leadership skills in the workplace. The common denominator to a wide group of broad ranging questions seems to be an interest in self-evaluation, while identifying specific ways to modify behaviors to become more effective as a leader.
This question, taken from one of the respondents, sums it up, “How can I start to behave like a leader?”
Before I answer that, I’d like to acknowledge the obvious … leaders behave in widely differing ways. And unfortunately, we’re painfully aware when leaders act badly. So I’d like to slightly restate this question as such, “How can I act in a way that enhances my credibility and influence with others?”
Asked that way, I believe there are five definite steps to improve your ability to lead:
1) Work on your character.
What people want most is a leader with integrity. Don’t break your promises. Don’t be careless with the truth or your relationships. Remember, no matter who you are or how hard you try to be your best, you will have some people who’ll become adversaries – they’ll attack you personally or professionally, either out in the open, or behind your back. Just make sure they don’t have any basis on which to do so. By doing the right things, you’ll make sure the truth is on your side.
2) Establish high standards and a strong, everyday work ethic.
Leaders apply their efforts with diligence and purpose. They are committed to their tasks, and supportive of the mission of the organization. They make advancements, not retreat. They don’t just come to work, they ‘Come To Work.’ They hold themselves accountable to high personal standards, not to bare minimums. Earning your influence comes through a regime of daily discipline.
3) Emphasize personal growth and learning.
I’m not talking about the 9 to 5. I’m talking about the things you add to your day beyond the boundaries of your work hours. Leaders who accomplish the most are committed to personal growth in every aspect of their lives.
4) Have an ‘Accomplishment Agenda.’
In my view, leadership isn’t about climbing the ladder, so you can sit in a nice chair and have a title on your business card – it’s about getting something done. Something that’s important to the organization, society, your peers, your family, yourself. It’s about making something come true, happen, become real. Measure leaders by their ability to accomplish something of significance – that’s the true measure of a person’s impact.
5) Make it a habit to involve others.
This is not last, and not least. Leaders do more than they can do by themselves. They enlist the helping hands and willing spirits of others. Connect with people by paying attention to them, getting to know them, encouraging them, showing them new possibilities, and paving the way for progress.
Acting like a leader is a big responsibility. When people experience you as a person of substance, your style will be affected in a positive direction. The net effect is a gain in credibility, which will improve your influence and effectiveness.
– Jerry Strom
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This article is based on *‘The High Points Survey: What Managers Most Want to Know about Leadership,’ copyright 2012, by Jerry Strom & Company, Inc. Download the White Paper at: http://www.jerrystrom.com/js_high-points.html