The word "leader" is so widely used that it could seem that there are only leaders working in companies. Of course, that is not true. However, it does not mean that the only real leaders are in senior management. Some senior managers are not leaders at all. Even ordinary employees can be leaders if they have the right leadership instincts. Glenn Llopis, management consultant, speaker and founder of the Center for Hispanic Leadership, focused on defining these instincts in an interesting article on clomedia.com. He compiled the following overview of the top ten leadership instincts, so you can try this little test to see whether or not you have a leader's instincts.
1. Decisiveness
A real leader must first and foremost be able to make decisions. He listens to other people's views, but he also knows how to step in if it is necessary to take action.
2. The heart of the matter
A real leader does not put off problems. Conversely, he perseveres in searching until he discovers the root causes of what needs to be solved.
3. Motivation
A real leader knows his co-workers, and knows how to motivate them to go above and beyond their normal duties and routines.
4. Teaching
A real leader is a good teacher. He informs his colleagues about the latest events and trends in the industry. He also loves to learn himself.
5. Develop relationships
A real leader tries to develop mutually beneficial relationships with others. He surrounds himself with other leaders and people he can learn something from.
6. Clear expectations
A real leader is a master of communication. He tells others clearly what to expect, and offers recommendations on how they can do their best.
7. No empty promises
A real leader does not promise anything he cannot deliver. He knows that actions are more important than words.
8. Feedback
A real leader wants to hear what others think about him, and what he could change about his behavior. In doing so, he gains the others' trust and interest when providing feedback to them.
9. Questions
A real leader is not a know-it-all. On the contrary, he wants to learn new things and never stops asking. He is not shy to ask for help when he does not know or cannot do something himself.
10. Leadership
A real leader like to lead (not manage) others. He is aware of the impact he has on their lives and above all, does everything with consideration for others, not himself.
So, do you know what is missing in your leadership skills? Then you have an ideal starting point, for example, what to choose for your next training course.
-kk-