Is your leadership going off the rails?

There is a lot going on in the world and at our organizations. In crisis mode, it can be easy to take up bad habits as we push to get things done and survive. But no matter what challenges and distractions we’re facing, executives must stay committed to leading the right way.

While each of us have unique traits that make us the right fit for our organizations, there are some guiding principles that make great leaders. In a recent blog post, leadership strategist John Thurlbeck outlines questions for leaders to utilize when considering whether they have gone off the rails.

  1. Are you leading with humility? We worked hard to get to this point in our careers, but don’t let your ego interfere with your leadership during these challenging times. Remember, there’s a difference between confidence and arrogance. It’s important to acknowledge that you can’t do everything yourself. Great leaders seek out advice and feedback from their peers and teams to address problems, and trust that employees have the skills and knowledge to get things done. Here are a few ways to ensure you’re practicing humility.
  2. Are you leading with your character? I’m a firm believer in practicing servant leadership. This style of leadership emphasizes doing right by your employees. You do that by building trust – and keeping it – leading with integrity, showing empathy and understanding during difficult times, and motivating them to reach greater heights. Employees who feel valued will be more engaged and committed to your mission.

 

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