With so much information – and advice – out there it’s hard to keep in perspective what is important and what is noise. Below are 7 practical reminders on leading.
1. You will need to spread the message more than once.
2. If people are given direction they will produce.
3. As a leader you don’t have to do all the work.
4. Focus on those that are willing to follow, everyone else will fall into place. Or you’ll need to move them on.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask questions from those that have the knowledge.
6. Let those that have skills lead in their area of expertise.
7. Listen twice as much as you speak.
Any other reminders for leaders out there?
Great reminders Juan! I would add to remember to encourage and speak hope to our people.
Dan, definitely goes a long way for employee satisfaction. Thanks for sharing.
I think one crucial reminder is to work hard in actively training leaders under you.
Loren, great addition. Thank for sharing.
#1 & 7 really stand out to me!
Great list.
TC, thanks for stopping by.
I like #3…it is the one I most often forget. I hate it when I am so busy I can’t see straight and then remember…oh, yea…I’ve got a team behind me!
I’d add focusing on the TEAM and not on yourself, we need to change the language from “I” to “We”. Give your team credit for successes, but own the failures yourself.
Tom, thanks for sharing. I too forget that I don’t have to do it all myself. I don’t have all the right skill sets or knowledge. That’s why it is important to hire the right people.
Juan,
Numbers one and seven hit home! I need to make sure I practice listening everyday.
And number two rings home because I just experienced this issues with on of my junior leaders. He had been given very little direction and was operating based upon the direction he was given. When I arrived everyone wondered why his performance was just okay. I reviewed his files and immediately it was apparent. He was suffering from a lack of direction (a leadership issue) and not a lack of potential or passion.
I made arrangements for him to join my team and took him under my wing. He has done a complete 180 and everyone recognizes it including my leaders.
You hit the nail on the head Juan!!
TJ, awesome story. As a leader we must look to ourselves to see where we have failed. As you point out, many times, it’s not that the individual doesn’t have the passion or the skills, but needs direction and leadership. Thanks for sharing this personal experience.
Good insights, Juan! I would add never give up. Thanks for sharing.
Drew, I’ve been hearing that theme all week long – never give up, don’t quit. Thanks for stopping in.