Being an Effective Leader in Business Through Example

There are many traits that a leader should be working on, including:

·         Being decisive

·         Constantly improving your knowledge and skill base

·         Being fair

·         Building your confidence

·         Having the right intend – that is your motivation is for all the right reasons.  

In every aspect of leadership the biggest message I can say is to lead by example.  As a business coach and leadership mentor, let me share a few examples of poor leadership and how you can improve your own leadership through leadership by example.

How to be an effective leader in business

Honesty.  I worked with a business owner who was in the habit of not refunding overpayments by customers.  Their invoicing system was a little confusing and often customers double paid.  His policy (which he shared with his staff) was ‘their bad luck; just keep it’.  This is not something I condoned.  He then came to me one day vehemently complaining that one of his staff has stolen from him.  That I do not condone either, but does one wonder why? 

Feet up.  It’s not uncommon for staff to become disgruntled when they are laden with work and look up to see the boss with his/her feet up on the desk, reclining back and reading the paper.  You might not be the first to arrive and last to leave, but you sure should give the impression you are most of the time.  I know you’re the boss, but if you’re going to sit around reading the paper, at the very least do that someplace else.  

Presentation.  People do judge books by their covers; it’s well known.  Be sure to be a quality leader by presenting yourself appropriately; in all ways.  What you say, what you write and what you wear.  Staff often emulate their bosses and somewhat copy them, so be sure to set the right example. 

Respect.  A prospective client said to me that her staff don’t respect her.  When she spoke to me about them, she complained, whinged and called them all somewhat unpleasant names.  Respect is earned and how you communicate with your team, your clients and others in the business will reflect in the respect (or otherwise) that you receive.  

Communication.  If you are looking for open and effective communication from those you are leading, then you need to start that ball rolling.  Keeping your team informed, in the loop and updated goes a long way to them firstly knowing what’s happening (and therefore able to perform their job) but also seeing how good communication happens. 

Keep Promises.  If you make a promise, then keep it.  Whether that be to a prospect, client, team member or supplier.  When your team see you not keeping promises, they trust you less and are less likely to follow.  

My view is that leaders are essentially teachers.  We teach through showing others how to do things best.  We should be demonstrating this, teaching this and reinforcing best practice.  If you are a leader in business, whether that be in a community group, Chamber, networking group, business or some other area – you have a responsibility and duty to lead well by example.  Be a poor leader and pretty soon you’ll be looking back and seeing that no one is following.  If you’d like to know more about my leadership mentoring visit my Leadership Mentor page.