How to Be a Good Leadership Role Model
You must become the change you want to see in your team or organization. We often use the phrase, “Actions speak louder than words”, but do you mean it? Do you back up boastful talk with meaningful actions?
Are you a good leadership role model?
Be the change that you wish to see in the world. – Mahatma Gandhi
How can we expect others to change if we aren’t ready to change ourselves?
Leadership is about taking the leið. To find the way (from Old Norse) is being the leadership role model you want to see in everyone else.
Are You a Good Leadership Role Model?
Have you ever criticized another manager in front of your team? I have. Do you drag your feet when you have to do something you don’t enjoy? I do.
Do you take responsibility when a problem arises, or do you push back?
The effect you have on others is greater than you think. Never underestimate the impact your words, actions, and attitudes have for doing harm (or good) to others and to yourself.
Whether you chose or not, you are a leadership role model.
Be a Leadership Role Model
To motivate the team, you need to start seeing yourself as a role model: setting a good example for others.
A good leadership role model sets high standards of accountability for themselves and their behaviours.
Before motivating your team, be sure to motivate yourself. Be the sort of person others can get behind and support. Be a good role model.
How to Be a Worthy Role Model
A good leadership role model:
- Practices self-reflection: they set exacting standards for themselves and others.
- Is self-aware: they are open to learning and new ideas.
- Shows empathy: they think carefully about the impact they have on others.
- Has vision, courage, and integrity: they communicate their vision and expectations clearly, so people know where they’re heading.
- Will take the lead: they lead by example. They are honest, sincere and practice what they preach.
People seldom improve when they have no other model but themselves to copy. – Oliver Goldsmith
Leadership Today
You may think that personality is attractive in today's world—success, wealth, beauty, talent, popularity—but it is character that matters. Great leadership is not about vanity; it is about empowering the team.
When the great leaders work is done the people say, “We did that ourselves!” – Lao Tsu
In a bold new world, integrity, honesty, kindness, tolerance, understanding, gratitude, and sincerity are what we will look for in our leaders. Those things that are valued so much in today's world will no longer be the big deal.
Do you know how other people see you? When you end a conversation, what impression do you leave behind? You are welcome to share your thoughts in the comments.