Deep vs. Surface Leadership

I recently attended a symposium at an esteemed institution of higher learning and the topic was related to teaching and learning in depth rather than just touching on the surface of a topic. This concept was rather intriguing and as I considered it further it seemed to apply to many current leadership situations.

Our society seems to promote and operate too often at only the surface leader level and is seen throughout all levels of our society. Certainly technology has contributed in some part to this shallowness, with the rapid individualistic proliferation of information. Just look at how we interact, text messaging, web chatting or surfing. Very rarely does anyone say "how's it going" with the intention of really listening to a long involved explanation. Leaders need to take time for people, because leaders don’t lead things.
One way I suggest we can deepen our interpersonal interactions and improve as a leader is to slow down a bit, devote time to a topic or concept and invest in dialogue. By taking time to personally discuss an item we naturally deepen our thoughts and interest. In part because we generate new insights and ideas and we respond to other peoples comments, and thus all are edified.

Change the World Green

Leadership is about innovation and innovation is about believing. Believing that there are other possibilities, untapped potential and exciting futures that await to be discovered. All of these beliefs correlate to leadership but they also correspond to environmental friendly world change.
There are other energy possibilities, we can tap incredible potential and considering the future is exciting. Leaders have a responsibility outside of their personal enterprise to exemplify responsible behavior and being green is one area that leaders can make a difference. By their very nature of being a leader and taking positive action, others will follow suit, creating a positive impact; the very same way leadership influences an organization.
So big or small, old or young be a “green” leader and have a global impact, right from your hometown.

Please & Thank you

I have worked with too many “leaders” or executives that have lost sight of one leadership basic, the importance of thanking others and acting nice. Oh, sure everyone has a ceremonial certificate or a big annual recognition activity. But what I am talking about are the simple acts that make the workplace more civil. For example thanking someone who holds the door, or asking someone to “please pass” an item, or taking time to talk to the custodian and show some appreciation for his/her effort.
As leaders progress it is important that they do not loose their appreciation for others efforts. Sometimes because of the diligent work of others, they come to expect that everyone will just do what they are told. Or that they are more deserving and are some how better based on their occupational position. If this happens the leader looses some of the emotional sensitivity critical to successful personal interactions. Often cited as a lack of emotional intelligence, the general prescribed response is to conduct training.
Recently I have been trying to do better in this area of taking a moment and letting others know that I appreciate their efforts. Normally I like most of us would probably not notice their quiet behind the scenes contributions, but by putting at the front of my mind I have been better. The results have been interesting: a new friend, an inside tip of an office change, a lot more “hellos” and “how are you doing” and an increase in job performance. I have always tried to by cordial, but what I was missing was the power of thank you. So take a little time out of the day to say “Please” and “Thank You”.
Thanks

Problem Solving

“The problem-solving approach allows for mental double-declutching. It does not require a direct switch from one point of view to another. It provides a period “in neutral” where there is an openness to facts and, therefore, a willingness to consider an alternative view.
William Reddin-Management Consultant
Collaborative problem solving is an effect tool for leaders to use. It is silly to think that just because one is in charge or responsible that they have all of the answers, yet too often we find ourselves either acting that way or treating others as if they should know it all just because they are at the helm. Certainly a good leader quality is decisiveness, but this does not mean that leaders should not solicit input to solutions. In fact the wise leader will get input, weigh the benefits and then decisively choose a course of action. Weighing the benefits is exactly what Reddin is referring to in “a period in neutral where there is openness to facts.” These brief moments between information assimilation and decision can be moments of clarity, where sheer genius is allowed to spring forth, and innovation is derived. I encourage everyone to take a few moments and consider the effect before deciding, and if time allows collaborate a little with others while considering the outcome. The results will be well worth the time spent.