Optimize Behaviors of Authentic Leaders

Career Optimizing Behaviors Authentic Leaders Perform Everyday

There are different types of leaders.   The optimal leadership type is the authentic leader.  This leader is doing this for and with his/her followers; not to them.  This leader is a part of the team not above the team.  And, this leader must is committed to practicing effective leadership behavior to be successful and stay on top of their game.  Consistency in a few proven practices is what can easily set apart an effective leader from a ineffective one. 

1. Read

Research shows that reading non-fiction material, l like leadership articles or self-help books, helps to increase your problem solving and critical thinking abilities. Some leaders have sworn off the reading of novels and other fictional accounts as frivolous and time wasting.  On the contrary, research also indicates that reading fictional books creates more empathy, creativity and compassion.  This are useful qualities for a leader who seeks to be trusted and respected. The experts recommend: Read news and current events every day.  Read two non-fiction books each quarter and at least two works of fiction each year.

2. Ask.

If you are in sales, you ask for the business. If you have a boss, you ask for permission or clarification (among other things). If you are on a team, you might ask for support or seek collaboration. As a leader, you should be asking your team what they need from you .  Also, you have to encourage your team to ask questions as well.  Let them know that no inquiry is too minor or elementary. The experts recommend: During every team meeting you conduct, do more asking than telling.  Also rotate the meeting facilitator role amongst the team members.  Giving others a chance to plan the agenda gives them a chance to be heard and voice their concerns.

3. Make Decisions Creatively.

Even when you brainstorm we can get caught in ‘group think’.  Group think suggests that when a group is sharing ideas together everyone tends to share similar or complimentary ideas.  No one objects or contradicts anyone else’s thoughts.  Which means no one dares to be creative or innovative.  Consider gathering team members’ ideas individually and privately.  Give one or two people in each brainstorming session the responsibility of playing devils advocate. This gives them permission to push and question. Consider opposing viewpoints, and processing solutions other than your own. You'll need to review pros and cons for each possibility. The experts recommend: Come up with 3 solutions to a problem. Write down risks and gains for each of them before making a final decision. Do this with your team member, rather than with other people in supervisory roles.

4. Collaborate.

Work with others on teams as often as you can.  Make networking a habit, and be willing to help others with their projects and priorities. Look for opportunities to engage with others because you will learn from them. New relationship and growing connections are an important tool for staying relevant.  The experts recommend: Volunteer for a task force, focus committee, or affinity group.  Join a nonprofit organization and tends meetings.  Maybe even volunteer to be a speaker or panelist, if you’re skilled in that arena. 

5. Take Care.

No one wants to work for a rundown, unhappy leader. It affects the dynamic, momentum and morale of the team. And, as a result it can also affect team performance. If you find yourself continually stressed out and it shows, it's time to take a different approach. The experts recommend: Engage in a 15-minute de-stressor activity twice a day, everyday. This might include a walk, meditating in your car, or reading something 'light'.

When you manage your time, your team, and your talents this way, you have an increased opportunity to earn the respect and trust of your followers, whether they are volunteers, employees, peers, constituents, board members, or other affiliates.  You will earn their hearts not just their efforts.  This will drive sustainable performance and engagement in your organization.  It will also set an outstanding example.

www.yourenhance.com | Enhance Business Solutions, llc is your source for training, coaching, employee development, and leadership skills improvement.
Angela Nelson | consultant and chief learning officer