TEAM COACH's CORNER

Sometimes we think that if we are going to teach leadership that we would just go to the book or training module that jumps right in to the various leadership traits and skills that ultimately help us become leaders. However, the reason that this is the fourth pillar and not the first is that no matter how much we know about leadership, we really can’t be effective unless we are constantly growing ourselves so that when we get to lead that we actually have something worthwhile to share. As you recall, the first pillar is personal growth which is the foundational building block of leadership success. Also, remember that each pillar must be built on a firm foundation in order to stand firmly in place as the other pillars are built. Then as we grow, we must learn how to effectively connect with others (second pillar) so that we can influence them (third pillar) which is the essence of leadership. 

Once we know how to influence, then we need to focus on the content, character, examples and experiences that we use to influence others as their leaders. There are numerous myths about leadership including the one that suggests leaders are born and that if you are not a born leader, then you can’t ever be one. Most leadership skills are in fact learned. As we coach and train, we define the traits and roles of leaders and recognize the great opportunities that exist for leaders as well as the great responsibilities. In fact, the further up the leadership ladder we go, the more responsibility we have to help others be their best and the less freedom and privileges we have as their coach, mentor and role model. There are thousands of books and training programs all about become a leader but the essence of leadership can be as simple as these three questions: do they respect you, do they care about you, and can you trust them?  

Watch for our next blog post where we will discuss the importance of the FIFTH PILLAR for achieving leadership success – DEVELOPING LEADERS AROUND YOU. Please email me with your suggestions for blog posts or questions at: john.gardner@yourleadershipTEAMCOACH or call me at:     800-295-1750