| |
Busting the Myths of Leadership
The great statesman Benjamin Franklin once said, "When you are finished changing, you're finished." And even though it's been 200-plus years since he uttered those famous words, they still hold true—especially in today's business world.
Long-standing ideas about how to lead a team are no longer viable. Nowadays, workers won't stick around for a bad boss, no matter how much they're paid. They want to be motivated and inspired. So how can you ensure you're an awesome leader—one others will follow? Start by avoiding these common, long-held leadership beliefs.
1. The Myth: They're inspired by their paycheck. As the owner of your company, you have the power in your hands to change a life. After all, you're the person signing the paychecks. So everyone should be happy—no, grateful—to do their job with no questions asked, right?
The Truth: Great leaders know power comes from persuasion, not position. Scaring someone to death about losing their job will not make them more productive or creative. Leaders who take the time to tell their team why they do what they do earn loyalty and team members who want to shine.
2. The Myth: No news is good news. Your team doesn't need to know when something bad happens. If sales are down, they're going to get all dramatic about it and leave. As a matter of fact, you're not sure they can be trusted with any sensitive news, good or bad.
The Truth: Winning organizations have a culture of communication. Your team wants to know what's happening and why. If not, distrust, anger and frustration set in. Sure, there is some information you can't share. But when you have the right team on board, you can trust them with nearly everything. Make a habit of over-communicating, whether good news or bad. Your team will respect you more for it.
Read more myths and join the conversation. | Share this: |  |  | |
 | | To learn more about business, team building and leadership, download our EntreLeadership podcasts, which include lessons from Dave plus interviews with key business leaders from across the nation.
|
Quick Tip By John Felkins
EntreLeadership Coaching and Community
The idea of being friends with a member of your team might seem too good to be true. It is possible, though, if you act like mature professionals. While it is harder if you were promoted to a leadership role after having been peers, the key to balancing a friendship and work relationship is expectations. If they are clearly communicated, you will avoid most of the typical pitfalls. As the leader, you need to be able to draw a line and make it clear that you can be friends but results still matter. You will hold your friend accountable.
Don't forget to check out a free online coaching session.
| | | |
Download our free digital magazine designed to help business leaders win!
| 
Learn more about your
DISC profile
Darrell Moore
Director, ELP Financial
You can't expect your team to improve their skills and performance if you, as their leader, aren't willing to grow too. I'm always searching for new business/leadership books to read. I also spend time being mentored by other leaders I respect. But that's just the start. The tough times can be just as powerful a tool, though they're not as fun. Some of my best leadership lessons were learned through adversity. While painful to go through, I can look back at each experience and see how it changed me for the better as a leader of my team. Leadership isn't a destination; it's a journey of continual growth and improvement. Although it's not always easy, what a trip it can be. About Darrell
Darrell Moore joined Dave's team in 2007 to lead the growth of the investing, insurance and tax Endorsed Local Provider (ELP) programs. His team has grown to become one of the most important to the company and works with more than 1,500 financial experts throughout the nation. Each year, these ELPs serve more than 250,000 Dave fans who are looking for professionals with the heart of a teacher. | | | |
No comments:
Post a Comment
Keep a civil tongue.