Leaders are not always the charismatic extrovert in the room. When you think about the word leader, who comes to mind? I imagine for some of you, it is an eloquent speaker like Dr. Martin Luther King, or John F. Kennedy. Now think about your professional and personal life. Whose paths have you personally crossed whom you would consider a great leader. Indulge me for a minute and actually come up with a specific person who has had a profound effect on you from a leadership perspective. Perhaps an old boss, a coach, etc. It’s going to be different for everyone, but I’m sure they were not all fabulous speakers or even high powered “A’ personality types. They do probably have some things in common though.
There has been extensive research done by Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner who spent over 30 years gathering evidence on exactly what great leaders actually do, and they broke it down into 5 Practices of Exemplary Leadership:1. Model the Way
- Clarify values by finding your voice and affirming shared values.
- Set the example by aligning actions with shared values.
2. Inspire a Shared Vision
- Envision the future by imagining exciting and empowering possibilities.
- Enlist others in a common vision by appealing to shared aspirations.
3. Challenge the Process
- Search for opportunities by seizing the initiative and by looking outward for innovative ways to improve.
- Experiment and take risks by constantly generating small wins and learning from experience.
4. Enable Others to Act
- Foster collaboration by building trust and facilitating relationships.
- Strengthen others by increasing self-determination and developing competence.
5. Encourage the Heart
- Recognize contributions by showing appreciation for individual excellence.
- Celebrate the values and victories by creating a spirit of community.
Now go back to that person you thought of at the beginning of the blog. Would you say they did all or most of this? Do you?
Thoughts…….. Contact me at abbe@TECResourceCenter.com