We are all in a position of leadership at any given moment in time. As we lead others … in the classroom, at a meeting, during a rally, in the midst of a project, etc. … we would do well to follow some well-established guidelines for effective leadership.
First of all, leaders are not born, they learn how to lead. Leadership is about behavior which others observe. Examples of observable behavior of a strong leader include:
- treating others with credible respect
- seeking positive relationships
- practicing face to face conversations that genuinely seek out others’ input and involvement
Credible Respect
We all get a laugh out of the old adage “do what I say, not what I do,” but a strong leader actually does what she says. She is credible, has strong values, and holds herself to high standards. This leader inspires those they lead to adhere to the same principles and their achievements evidence this.
Positive Relationships
An effective leader includes others by asking for input and follow-through. This leader does not engage in top-down leadership, but shared action towards stated goals. Having a collaborative process also builds trust and raises up those working with the leader to feel empowered, appreciated, stronger and therefore valued.
Face to Face Conversations
The widespread use of email to convey important communications, rather than in-person meetings, has caused many problems of misunderstanding between leaders and others. Being able to hear each other’s tone of voice, observe body language, be able to respond/ask questions/support – all in real time- is extremely valuable. Engaging in these meetings (always better in person but zoom is better than email) is a regular practice of effective leaders.
The results of effective leadership are impressive: greater commitment by all to the group, positive attitudes about the process, increased motivation to meet the individual/group goals, exhibition of similar leadership behaviors by those in the group, and so on. Again, these leadership behaviors are learned skills and we can all practice them so that we will all be exemplary leaders.
