Are you using your role in Human Resource Management to lead your company’s employees? With all of the other hats you’re wearing, leadership might have been pushed to the back burner. But don’t give up; here are 5 simple ways to lead by example. Check in and see how you’re using them to make a difference in your organization.
Winning Attitude - Be the exciting fulfilled employee that you want to see! Happiness begets Happiness, and sometimes that’s all your employees need. Lead by example so that others may remember why they are here. And if you find this a difficult task, then it may be time for you to re-evaluate, and remove whatever roadblocks are in the way of your own attitude. Because as leader, it is the most important tool you have.
Openly Communicate - That’s right, it’s a hidden way to say “Listen!” Are you listening to your employees? Are you allowing them an open door to share what they’re seeing or hearing on their end? Like any good relationship, open communication is key in regards to performance, enjoyment, and improvement. Also, notice when you’re being real with them, or when you’re just telling them what they want to hear. Don’t just make assertions, really get in there and find out the truth of the situation. It will give you a new perspective to lead from.
Make the Hard Choices - This is where the rubber meets the road: decision making. It’s a big part of why you’re paid, and showing up here is everything. How do you make tough decisions? Do you ever catch yourself waiting around until you can take an opinion poll? Or have you ever tried to pass it off as someone else’s problem. Be that stand for your company. Be the person who can step up, evaluate the situation, and make the tough decision. And do it regardless of what the popular opinion is. Anxiety is normal, but your gut will tell you what’s right.
Be the Brand - Are you being the proud face of your brand that you want to see in your employee’s? The marketing department usually handles the promotional pens, t-shirts, and tote-bags, but it is your job to help lead the company culture! How are you setting the example of what it means to be a part of your specific organization? What about a presence in your community? If you want people to hold your company in as high of standards as it deserves, remember it all starts with you.
Go Beyond - How have you gone the extra mile lately? It’s not always in quantity either. Putting in extra hours is not always the answer. What about being fully present when someone has a problem? Or, have you taken a few extra minutes with something because “good enough,” just isn’t? There are many little ways to go beyond what everyone else deems acceptable. And leadership is about setting that example. You know that you care, but sometimes it’s just a matter of showing everyone else. Show them by example.
And remember, the most important part of any journey is the step you’re taking right now. Get present, and get focused. Don’t dwell on the past and future, as they can take care of themselves. And you already have all the tools you need to lead! It’s just a matter of showing up, and doing the work that matters.
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About the Author
Nor Franco is the Managing Director and Virtual CEO of nextManager.net. He's a former corporate executive whose passion is bringing out the full potential of HR in Businesses. This time that passion is pursued through Virtual Management. He writes and blogs about his management views and insights here. Follow him on Twitter.
