You Becoming a Leader
Posted: December 29th, 2008 | Author: admin | Filed under: Self-Improvement |When you are working, do you get frustrated when things happen the way you don’t want them to be? People mill aroung but nothing gets done. And in the daily hustle and bustle, do you feel that your goals remain just that – goals. Then maybe it’s time for you to stand and make something about it.
Most people are content just to stand around listening for orders. And it isn’t unusual to adopt a follow-the-leader mentality. But maybe, somewhere inside of you, you feel the desire to make make a difference – to be the head, not the tail. Then maybe leadership just suits you fine.
There are those who believe that great leaders are made, not born. Yes, it may hold true that some people are born with natural talents. However, without drive, without enthusiasm, without experience, and without practice, there can be no true development in leadership.
You must also remember that good leaders are continually working and studying in improving their leadership skills. This takes a commitment to constantly improve in whatever endeavor a person chooses.
First of all, let us define what leadership is. In being a leader, one must be able to extend his influence over others to attain a goal, or an objective. He contributes to the organization and cohesion of a group.
Oppositely to what most people think, it is just about power. It is not about coercing people or taking them to do something them by fear. It is about inspiring others in attaining the goals of the organization. It is giving them equal treatment and helping them see the big picture. It is becoming a leader, not being a boss.
But first, you have to get people to follow you. How is this accomplished?
A clear sense of purpose is a key for others to follow you. People will only follow you if they see that you know where you are going. Remember that stickers in automobiles? The one that says, don’t follow me, I’m lost too? The same is true for leadership. If you yourself do not know where you’re headed to, people will most likely not follow.
You yourself must what the vision of the organization is. Having a clear sense of hierarchy, knowing who the bosses are, who to talk to, the organization’s goals and objectives, and how the it works is the only way to let others know that you know what you are doing.
Being a leader is not about what you make others do. It’s about what you think about and what you do. You will be someone what your followers must be.
Studies show that one other criteria of good leadership is the trust and confidence your subordinates have of you. If they trust you, they will be with you whatever it takes for the organization to succeed.
Trust and confidence is built on ethics, trustworthiness, and good relationships.
The manner of dealing with others, and the relationships you build build the foundation of your organization. The stronger your relationship, the stronger their trust and confidence is in your capabilities.
Once you have those things, you may now proceed to communicate the goals and objectives you are to undertake.
Communication is a very essential key to good leadership. Without this you can not be a good leader. The knowledge and technical expertise you have must be clearly imparted to others.
Also, you can not be a good leader and unless you have sound judgement. You must be able to assess situations, weigh the advantages and disadvantages of any decision, and actively seek out a solution.
It is this judgment that your subordinates will depend upon. Therefore, good decision-making skills is vital to the success of your organization.
A leader is not a one-man team. A leader doesn’t know every single thing, and you should not rely upon your skills alone.
You should recognize and take advantage of the skills and talents your subordinates have. It is only in this stage that you will become one cohesive unit.
Remember being a leader takes a good deal of work and time. It is not learned overnight. Remember, also, this is not all about you. It’s about you and your people.
? Do you have the talent to work closely with people? Then make a move now. Take your stand and be leader today.
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