I mentioned yesterday I was asked to describe how I developed my leadership skill. As I reflect upon it, here are some ideas:
- I modeled what worked to motivate me. In short, I knew who I liked following. I tried to lead the same way.
- Learned about different personality types and what motivated them. I noticed that not everyone responded to my leadership in the same way. I became aware of the different approaches that worked for others. I sought to be more discerning in assessing those types and flexible in my approach.
- Studied leaders in all settings. I stole liberally from them. That led to a style that created comfort for me. Leaders don’t get rattled as much if they stay in their lane.
- Developed speaking and training skills which helped me to teach and to train better. If you are a good teacher and trainer, people follow you because it’s fruitful for them.
- Listen well. Seek first to understand. You can refine you’re leadership if you understand the issues at hand.
- Ask good questions rather than dump information. Focus on learning. It helps to grow.
- Be transparent. Communicate by sharing more-good, bad, indifferent.
Just some ideas. Hope they help you improve your leadership efforts.
