That’s just the way I lead!
You’ve heard the old saying, “Leaders don’t quit organizations, they quit managers.” I’ve been coaching leaders for almost two decades and one of the greatest challenges I find is leaders who are unwilling to adapt their style of leadership to reach others. A recent leadership survey found that 54% of leaders use only one leadership style when working with their teams.
From Blind Spots to Breakthroughs
I worked with a leader a few years ago whose boss was all business and ruled by fear. He would belittle employees in front of others and was constantly in a hiring mode because of the toxic culture he created. It was his way or the highway. Dr. Henry Cloud in his book, “Boundaries for Leaders”, says you’re either creating the situation or allowing the situation. This leader was obviously creating it!
How do you avoid being “that” leader? There are three levels of leadership I challenge leaders to attain. Level one is Self-Awareness. This is simply knowing thyself through taking assessments, conducting a 360 on yourself or simply asking others for honest feedback. Level two is Self-Management. Now that you know how you react and respond, what does the other person I’m working with need from me in order to connect and get the job done? Level three is Empathy. This is the hardest level, but leads to the best outcomes. Empathy in leadership is being able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and understand from their perspective. It doesn’t mean you have to agree, but when others realize you understand, they’ll follow faster and stay longer.
A Proven Tool for Transformational Leadership
One of the tools I’ve used with great success is the REACH Profile for leaders. It has genuinely helped hundreds of leaders understand themselves, manage their leadership style and learn to empathize with others. I’m a classic “type A” leader and as I’ve continued to use the evidence and resources of the REACH toolbox, I continue to grow my influence.
Just remember, when leading others it all starts with self-awareness (know thyself), self-management (know others), and empathy (leading a team with heart and mind).
