Send to Kindle8 Tips for Better Leadership
Some random thoughts on leadership and how to be a better leader.
Never confuse the words “leadership” and “good leadership.” We often say that someone isn’t a leader when we really mean he or she isn’t a good leader. Bad leaders are still leading.
Don’t lie. When you lie you have to remember to whom you lied, when, and in what context. It’s much easier to tell the truth. (This was for people who had to be told not to lie in the first place)
The higher you go, the less you know. That’s right, people tell you less the more responsibility and authority you have. Your subordinates are not usually trying to be malicious. They are much more likely to be trying to protect you or to not bother you with information they think isn’t important for you to know. You must be proactive about gathering information and keeping tabs on what’s going on.
However…
Don’t micromanage. It isn’t necessary to act on everything you know. Let your subordinate leaders do their jobs.
Have you noticed the so-called reality television shows? In the current “everyone’s equal and everyone’s a winner” culture, have you noticed that some of the most popular shows are ones that tell us no one is equal and only one is a winner? Humans are a competitive race and always will be. Friendly competition can be a great tool for leaders of multiple groups. Just keep it friendly. Everyone likes to feel they’re on a winning team.
In case you aren’t aware, a scientific study has revealed that men and women are different! No kidding. The fact there was a scientific study is really troubling but the fact that this conversation is still going on in leadership forums is even more troubling. If you don’t have women leaders you are probably screwing up. But, if you’re selecting leaders based on gender, you’re definitely screwing up. Good or bad leadership knows no gender. Now, can we get on with life and quit talking about this? (There really was a study. See Time January 20, 1992)
Ignorance is simply a state of not knowing. We’re all ignorant in some subjects. Stupidity is acting on ignorance. Don’t be stupid.
Loyalty is a two way street. Being loyal to your workers is probably harder than it is for them to be loyal to you; unless you’re an ogre. Loyalty to your workers sometimes involves self-sacrifice.
What would you add?
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