Real leaders are builders. They build relationships, build bridges, and make others stronger! The most recognized and acclaimed leaders realize the importance of effective communication and how that skill set is a corner stone for "tuning In" to their team member's needs, as well as the desires of their customers.
How do great leaders and communicators tap into the greatness of others? They master the art of being interested. Everyone loves to talk about themselves. A great leader will inquire before they inspire. This is the “buy in” necessary for credibility.
Have you noticed when you give a person an honest sincere compliment they light up with huge smiles of happiness? They glow!
Conversely, constant criticism produces more mistakes and a poor morale.
Gordon Tredgold’s secret to empowering others: “Everything we do as leaders is magnified. Every compliment, nod of approval, and encouraging word is amplified and has the ability to inspire and drive our teams forward. This is a fantastic creative power that enables us to move mountains and accomplish lofty targets. On the flip side, any negative feedback, no matter how trivial, is also amplified, such that even the smallest criticism can be felt like a stake through the heart.”
He continues, “So. imagine the impact of bigger criticisms and how much damage they can do, the stress that they create, which then goes on to hinder progress. The exact opposite of what we are trying to achieve. We need to be very careful how we wield this power, which is both creative but also dangerously destructive. As leaders, our goal is to create!”
A friend of mine and my family always talked about “Decent human behavior.”
Real leaders develop people to be the very best version of themselves. They realize that everyone is born with certain skills and limitations. Developing the best of the strengths and minimizing the limitations is essential for creating a culture that is committed to excellence.
Real leaders make their people stronger, build countries, build companies, build relationships and connect and communicate with others well!
Real leaders like President Ronald Regan, Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King were all able to paint a picture of what their audience was capable of. Whether they were marching in Selma, tearing down the Berlin Wall, or battling communism.
Great leaders like Lee Kwan Yew transformed Singapore from a tiny third world country into a first world economy by investing in education and empowering people. Roberto Goizueta led and transformed a floundering Coca Cola to world-wide market dominance. Alan Mulally led Boeing and Ford to success when all the “experts” said it couldn’t be done. Douglas Conant transformed Campbell’s Soup Company from near bankruptcy to the thriving business we all know today.
Great leaders also EXPECT adversity. It is not if you get knocked down…but when. Challenges and setbacks are woven into the fabric of a strong culture. How they choose to get back on track (or select a new track) is a crucial step in charting the course of your organization’s destiny.
First Lady Lou Henry Hoover, helped begin the Girl Scouts, organized a women’s division in the National Amateur Athletic Federation (physical fitness for girls and women), WW1 when America entered the war she mobilized American women to help with food conservation. She began making Nationwide radio broadcasts to help inspire the women of that era so they could do more and be more.
What can you do to grow your influence as a leader?
1) Focus on serving others. Show respect, inspire, motivate, and encourage others to be the best version of themselves. Give others feedback, not unnecessary criticism, to foster a culture of warmth and happiness within your organization. Remember, Real leaders develop people.
2) Ask questions about your team members and their families…and actually listen to the answers. Ask for your team members’ opinions and listen to their responses. Remind them that they are important to the company and are appreciated for their work.
3) Share your knowledge and resources openly. Don’t hesitate to give your team members opportunities to learn and grow.
Dr. Albert Schweitzer said, “At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.”
Real leaders share their gratitude with others! Real leaders are builders. They build relationships. They build bridges! They make others stronger! These leaders, these builders are the best communicators and build strong relationships and develop leaders.
Madeline Frank, Ph.D., is an Amazon.com Best Selling Author, speaker, business owner, teacher, concert artist, and parent. She helps businesses and organizations “Tune Up their Business”. Her observations show you the blue prints necessary to improve and keep your business successful. Her latest book “Leadership On A Shoestring Budget” is available everywhere books are sold. If you need a speaker or virtual speaker contact Madeline at: mfrankviola@gmail.com
