Madonna has it.
Ronald Regan had it.
The U.S. President-Elect Barak Obama has it.
"It" is that mesmerizing, charismatic, articulate, confident persona that attracts fans of all walks of life.
The problem?
As I mention in my latest book, Everyday Ethics, Everlasting Consequences (available at www.REACHdevelopment.com), that "wow factor" is also the defining character trait of every dictator and criminal mastermind throughout history and modern day.
So the element of a true ethical and moral compass has a lot more to do with how someone will lead and in what direction. And that direction results from action. The wow factor gets you in; performance moves you on.
After the speech is over, the photo ops are done, and the embracing smile, people will ask, "Now what?"
People want to hear and see well-conceived plans and execution. I work with leaders on strategic growth initiatives, from a number of sectors, and my rules for effective leadership means: keep it simple, be confident, plan and execute. It's the early successes that create momentum, enthusiasm, and confidence to see the rest of the plan through.
There are 5 Factors of an Ethics Persona that defines a leader:
Image: be poised, courteous, and well dressed.
Words: be appealing, confident, and connect with your audience's interests.
Actions: be consistent and unapologetic in decision making and conduct, and base them on a defined ethical compass.
Vision: crafting a bold, brighter future that is reasonable to pursue, but lofty enough to empower beyond the daily obstacles, is important.
Associations: the people you keep company with, advisors you welcome counsel from, and the causes you align yourself with are important.
Delivery is what continues to "wow" others into following. |
