What’s Leadership to You?

Leadership can take many forms. I would like to concentrate my post on business leadership. What does this mean to you? Is having a leader important? I think so. A leader gives you direction. There have been many times in my professional life where I have needed a leader to show me what to do and where to look for answers and so on. If I wasn’t able to learn from someone more experienced than myself, I would not progress as quickly.

Different styles of Leadership

I have had bosses, co-workers, and friends be leaders in various different ways. There are leaders that rule by force and those that gently guide. Which way is more effective? One method is not necessarily more effective than the other. It is the situation that dictates the type of leadership that should be used. For example, the military uses force to teach troops how to follow directions. That method is very effective in that situation. Professors who teach MBA classes set up discussion among the students allowing a more conversational environment, and uses their knowledge as a springboard for learning. I know that these are both rather radical examples but I think you get the point.

Most leadership styles I have experienced fall somewhere in the middle. I would also like to point out that leaders may also adapt different leadership styles for different given situations. For example, when dealing with a disgruntled employee, a leader may be more understanding, but when dealing with an unproductive employee they might be more forceful. See the difference?

Why Leadership is Important

Can you imagine a restaurant with no manager? The food would probably arrive to the tables late, and customers would generally be less satisfied with their experience. It is very important for employees to be led by someone with experience and someone who sets a positive example. This, in my opinion, is the most important aspect of an effective leader. Leading by example.

Take a look at those whom you have some influence over. What do you want them to be or do? Take it upon yourself to lead them. You can help them and help yourself in the process. Think about how you would want your employees or co-workers to behave and work. Then do that behavior yourself. Others around you will notice your success and want to emulate it. Think about how positive this is. Number one, you will actually be more successful because you are adapting the behaviors that you think you and everyone else should have and two, those whom you care about will be more successful too.

Tips For Becoming a Great Leader…

1. Ask yourself how you would want to be lead.

2. Realize that those whom you care about look to you in some ways for an example.

3. Ideally, how would you want those around you to act.

4. Always keep in mind your/the comany’s ultimate goal.

5. Be flexible.