Ten Things Every Leader Should Know
I am a student of leadership. I want to be the best leader I can be. As a result, I read books about leadership; I read blogs about leadership; and listen to podcasts about leadership. I have a lot to learn still about leadership. But there are several things about leadership I’ve picked up so far. Here’s my list:
Ten Things Every Leader Should Know
- Leaders read. Leaders keep learning. One of the best ways to learn is to read. There are many great leadership books and blogs out worth reading. I have a leadership library on my desk which is a great resource and reminder. If you want to lead well, read well.
- Leaders serve. Leadership doesn’t mean you should stay in your plush office expecting to be served. Leaders get in the trenches, and they lead by example. Great organizations serve others. This happens when leaders lead by example.
- Leaders encourage. Solid leadership is marked by encouragement. Leaders are the biggest cheerleaders for those in their organizations. This means helping others see a vision for the future.
- Leaders give credit. The best leaders give credit where credit is due. Successes come because people worked hard. Leaders give credit to those who deserve it.
- Leaders take blame. When something goes wrong, leaders step up and take the blame. They don’t look around trying to pin the blame on someone else. They take responsibility for the failures of an organization.
- Leaders appreciate. And they express the appreciation in their words – written and orally. If you are a leader, you need to join the Thank You Revolution. You have the power to shape the culture of your organization by expressing gratitude.
- Leaders lead regardless of title. You don’t have to be president, king, or CEO to lead. You don’t have to be a supervisor, manager, or director. If you are a leader, you lead. It doesn’t matter what position you hold or what people call you. Don’t wait for the next promotion.
- Leaders recognize their roots. Someone believed in you somewhere along the line. They mentored you. They encouraged you. They provided an example worth following. Leaders remember those who paved the way for them.
- Leaders never fully arrive. A leader still has things to learn. A leader still has room to grow. A leader cannot rest on his laurels. Otherwise, he is destined for downfall.
- Leaders pave the way for the next leaders. At some point, leaders retire or leave organizations for another reason. Leaders mentor up and coming leaders. Leaders leave things in good shape for future leaders.