I must warn you the following isn’t new, startling, or profound.
It isn’t steeped in academic, psychological theory, or complex statistical jargon.
It is however insightful, true, and beneficial to anyone in search of a simple and elegant model for leading people through these uncertain times. These are the drivers for leaders:- Memorization There are nuances in leading through today’s issues; however, there are proven fundamentals that work all the time. Those fundamentals include: integrity, critical thinking, fiscal discipline, quality products, customer service excellence, top-notch people, distinct/unique sales positioning, community involvement, strategic planning, succession planning, and staff development. Most companies are successful today because fundamentals were established and followed years ago. Remembering those lessons learned is imperative.
Whether you’re beginning a new business, a new division, or taking over an existing one, there are values and experiences that can prove invaluable in moving forward into new markets, new times, and new directions. Remember the good and the bad - and repeat the good. - Realization Things are different today. The economy, credit access, technology, globalization, regulation, and other internal and external factors have changed... and those changes change everything. Today’s leader must have the ability to keep irrational optimism as well as irrational pessimism in check.
Scanning the horizon for trends is admirable, but don’t forget to look internally at the practices and people in place and whether they’re aligned for current and future needs for the firm to succeed. Make necessary changes, being ever mindful of the development needs, hiring demands, and resource allocations for long term goal achievement. - Imagination Today’s leader must not only search for different things but also for ways of doing things differently. Concepts of transition, transformation, and innovation all conjure up both subtle and dramatic change. The ability to articulate and educate the team, on the necessity of making those changes in order to focus on company mission and objectives, is critical. This entails motivation and inspiration. This means delegation and recognition. This means direction and discipline. This means being able to keep one eye on today’s demands and the other on potential and highly probably demands for tomorrow. Preparing for an unknown future requires exploring the unimaginable with the thought of possibility.
- Determination The relentless commitment to succeed has been at the heart of many a company’s achievement and resilience. That persistence should not be based on flawed optimism or some hyperbole of hope, but analysis, thought, planning, and exploration of real strategies for accomplishing objectives. Taking a stand, having the courage to move on with plans and allocate the necessary resources to its execution, is a key difference between true leaders and the idyllic hopeful. Achievement comes with work, not just wishful thinking.
Know that you are not the first to be challenged. You must draw on the talents you have and the lessons you have learned and continue to learn.
Leading people is a blending of techniques and style with truly individual talents. I wish you the purpose of winning, the power of memories, and the promise of tomorrow as you continue to REACH!
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