Nearly every individual who ascends to a position of leadership claims his intent and commitment to becoming at least a good leader, if not even better.
However, when we evaluate those in leadership positions, we observe that the vast majority of these individuals do not even approach becoming mediocre leaders.
In some instances, this is because the individual is either ill - prepared or unsuited to lead, but quite often the cause is at least partially because they don't either understand, commit or follow the needed methodology that good leaders observe.
These five methods include: 1.
Train, retrain and prepare; 2.
Effective listening; 3.
A value - first, empathetic approach and mindset; 4.
The ability to transform their meaningful dreams to workable and important goals, and simultaneously creating and implementing true action plans; and 5.
Continuous and complete follow up! 1.
It is not enough to simply go to training sessions.
Most studies regarding how we learn indicates that the average individual must hear something numerous times before it penetrates and becomes part of one's persona (most often, we hear people say either five, seven or eight, or even more repetitions are needed).
Every great leader has always had the attitude that there is always more to learn and understand, so they dedicate themselves to real learning, and committing to whatever amount of time and repetition achieving this necessitates.
In other words, meaningful leadership is often based on real preparation based on knowledge and judgment.
2.
While few in leadership ever even take the time or make the effort to listen, even few do so effectively.
There is a huge difference between hearing and listening, and it takes disciple and commitment to really listen in a meaningful manner.
Great leaders do not interrupt others, nor do they remain inflexible when malleability is essential.
Be an effective listener! 3.
You cannot and should not lead if you are not willing to prioritize value and empathize with the needs of one's constituents and other stakeholders.
Understand that empathy and sympathy are not the same - sympathy means that you feel sorry for someone but empathy means you put yourself in someone else's place, and as President Clinton famously said, "I feel your pain.
" When one truly empathizes and puts the interests of others first, he positions himself to do what is necessary while also potentiating his ability to motivate others to action and greater participation.
4.
It is not enough for a leader to merely have a dream, although a meaningful dream is often a necessary beginning.
These dreams must bring on goals that resonate with others.
However, unless this brings about a viable action plan (with multiple contingencies), the words become little more than empty rhetoric.
5.
Nothing just happens if it is important and sustainable.
It requires planning, and most importantly, continuous follow up.
You don't become a good leader simply because you say that you want to be, and use all the right words.
It begins with these five methods, and a commitment to excellence and persistence.