After, over four decades, of involvement, in nearly all aspects of leadership, and leadership planning, from identifying, qualifying, training, developing, and consulting to thousands, of actual, and/ or, potential leaders, I have often, pondered, what makes a leader, more effective, prepared, and ready, for present, relevant, as well as, future, sustainable possibilities/ ramifications. There are many styles, of leading, and, although, there is no such thing, as, one- size – fits – all, I feel it might be helpful/ useful, to consider, examine, review, and discuss, some of these options, such as: using fear/ pressure; coercion; empathy; or, leading, by example.
1. Fear/ pressure: Far too often, some pseudo – leaders, seem to believe, they can only be effective, inspiring, etc, by resorting to using fear and pressure tactics. While, in the immediate, and short – term, this may work, to some degree, in the longer – run, will have the unwanted ramifications of turning – off, others, including existing members, as well as potential future constituents. Leading effectively, means, considering, both, how to overcome obstacles, and address current needs/ priorities, while avoiding ramifications, which might negatively impact, future sustainability!
2. Coercion: Coercion is defined as, the practice of persuading others to do something, by using force or threats. In the shorter – term, using this approach, clearly indicates, a degree of panic, and lack of quality preparation, and, almost always, in the longer – run, creates an overall negative attitude, etc. A true leader doesn’t coerce, but, rather, inspires and motivates, those he serves, and represents, by clearly, demonstrating, he is ready, willing, and able, to effectively listen, and learn from every conversation and experience, and proceed with the utmost degree of genuine empathy!
3. Empathy: One can’t fake, being empathetic, although many seem to try to! It requires being ready, willing and able, to avoid, the desire, to hear our own voice, but, rather, prioritize effective listening, and learning! When a leader possesses genuine empathy, he puts himself, in the place of those, he serves and represents, and seeks to inspire and motivate his stakeholders, by addressing their concerns, priorities, etc.
4. Leadership, by example: One must realize, recognize, and understand, quality, effective leadership, must be, by example! Others always watch, what a leader does, even when he doesn’t realize it! Stakeholders and constituents, become, far more willing to follow, and be inspired and motivated, to be more involved, when they believe in a leader’s example. It’s what they do, not what they say!
If you hope to be an effective leader, plan accordingly, and be prepared. Learn, prepare, and commit, to doing, what’s needed, to make a difference, for the better!
