Contrary to the belief of many, leadership is not something to be lorded over the masses. Looking down on those who work for you will only bring bitterness and low morale. Yet, I am confounded at many leaders who hold this position. Successful leaders are not those who reach quotas and meet deadlines. Truly successful leaders are those who strive to raise up others by helping them to find and develop their abilities. It is then that people work together for the good of the organization.
Leaders expect, even demand certain objectives and targets from their workers. Leaders believe because a person is making a wage, he/she is obligated to have a hunger for accomplishing the company objectives. This is a dangerous and fallible way of thinking. Yet, too many leaders and organizations follow this thinking as if it were a holy grail. Workers want to know that leaders share the same hunger.
Unfortunately, much of what is seen by workers of their leaders is completely different. They see higher-paid, controlling managers, closer to slave owners than leaders. Controllers waiting to pounce on the slightest error or productivity let up. I trust this is not the type leader you wish to be. If my assumption is correct, here are three features you can undertake to become a truly successful leader.
- Show vulnerability; You are not perfect. Admit your own mistakes. Demonstrating vulnerability validates your understanding of work and related skill. Revealing vulnerability is not a weakness. Rather, it is indeed a strength and a tool for strengthening others. It may be difficult at first, but learn to display true and tangible vulnerability. Watch production of your workers soar.
- Act according to shared values. The values of the organization should be the same for every person within, from the CEO to the newest, lowest line level worker. Organizations where leadership has a differing set of values than the employees, cause disunity and distrust between the ranks. If lower line employees are expected to work 60 hour weeks or produce x amount, then leadership at all levels should have like expectations.
- Always find avenues to improve yourself as a leader and provide for others to improve themselves. Every leader should have a plan for self-improvement; improving your leader and people skills as well as the skills required to perform your job at your very best. Successful organizations observe, interview, and assist employees (volunteers) in seeking out and providing opportunities for self-improvement. This can come from mentors, books, seminars, training, cross-training, and more. As a leader your self-improvement should always make others’ lives better in the process.
If you want to be a truly successful leader, commit to these three features. You will never stop growing, learning, and assisting others in self-improvement as well. And I can assure you, no financial remuneration can ever come close to the delight and contentment of the outcome of this style leadership!
George Yates is an Organizational Health Strategist and coach, assisting churches, organizations, and individuals in pursuing God’s purpose for life.