There are those that lead and those that want to be led, its sorta the natural order of things.
So are leaders born, or are they made? While it may be true that some people are born with a leadership qualities, there will be no true development without practice, drive, enthusiasm, and experience. You see leadership is the “process of becoming” and good leaders will continually strive to improve their skills, to commit to whatever endeavor they wish to excel in.
Leadership is the ability to influence change, to encourage collaboration, to empower others and innovate. Leadership is not, I repeat…NOT about Power!…. nor is it about harassing or using fear to drive people. That just makes you a dictator and egomaniac (and I think we’ve all seen those in action before….not a pretty sight argggh)
People will follow when they have a clear sense of purpose, when they feel inspired to act, when they understand the nature of what is required and what the end goal is.
A good leader is able to communicate and convey simply their vision, ideas, objectives and goals, while demonstrating that they understand what is required to make these things happen. They develop trust and confidence through fostering relationships and being ethical.
Being a leader is not about what you make others do. It’s about who you are, what you know, and what you do. You are a reflection of “those who you wish to lead” must be.
So what’s all this have to do with your business?
We all know that people seek solutions, and where do they go to get those solutions…to those they perceive to be the leaders in their field right…Right!
Time for an adjustment in thinking here….so really you’re not selling your wizbang you-beaut widget, you’re selling your leadership, fulfilling the promise that you have the ability to help them reach their objectives, to solve their problem. They are buying a piece of you, your talent, your skills, your authority.
The way you deal with people, and the relationships you build will lay the foundation for the strength of your group or community. The stronger your relationship, the stronger their trust and confidence is in your capabilities. Once you have their trust and confidence, you can now communicate the goals and objectives to be undertaken.
Remember though that leaders can’t do it all themselves, nor do they know everything. You must learn to recognize and utilize the talents of others to nurture your leadership skills. Being a leader takes consistent effort and time, it is definitely not learned overnight.
Here are seven leadership traits for you to take a look at in your business. How can you improve your message to incorporate these key qualities.
- Intelligence – Meet your audience where they are, dont go above their head so as to appear condescending nor treat them like idiots.
- Competency – Having full knowledge of your topic/subject matter, being confident in your delivery.
- Inspiration – The ability to impact change through meeting the needs of others and empowering change.
- Honesty – Say what you mean and mean what you say, integrity and candor are imperative to building your business relationships.
- Impartiality – Be sensitive to feelings, values, interest and well being of all.
- Uncomplicated – Be simple, and clear in your communication, don’t mix messages it only leads to confusion.
- Imaginative – Be creative and innovative. Define new ideas and solutions, be adaptable and willing to change to meet your market.
There are many other qualities of leadership, which do you consider imperative to your business? As always I would love to hear what you think…don’t be shy!
Have You Checked These Posts Out?:
- Leadership: Not Just For Corporate Heads In Bulging Departments
- Entrepreneurial Commonalities
- Have You Lost Faith In Your Business?
