I hope you’re following along as we countdown the final 100 days of 2022 - you can join us anytime. Learn more about the program HERE.

In Part I, we’re going to start off with the small changes you can immediately implement in order to start creating strong leadership behaviors.  If we want to see change, we start with ourselves.

1. Be aware of the impact you have.  This can be both positive and negative.  When we have interactions with others, whether we like it or not, it’s remembered.  As you interact with people be aware not only of what you say but how you say it.  Is the other person hearing the message as it’s intended?  What do you want them to take away from the discussion?  

2. Don’t just act interested, be interested.  If you’re not interested, then don’t ask.  Hearing is not the same as listening.  Have you ever had someone ask you how you are just to get the question out of the way?  Or you’re deep in conversation and you can see the other person is more interested in how they will respond than in what you are telling them.  Have you been in a conversation recently and been more focused on what you have to say?  Unfortunately, it happens.  Great leaders learn to truly listen.  They do their best to minimize or eliminate distractions, do NOT have a cell phone nearby to interrupt, and focus on the other person – not themselves.  Great leaders don’t ask people questions only to check them off their list.  They ask because the response matters.

3. Great leaders want to bring their best selves every day.   So, what happens when you can’t?  We’re all human and we have days where we struggle, have distractions and challenges, or simply don’t feel our best.   While some people might think Leaders must power through those situations, sometimes allowing others to see the human side of us, yes, our vulnerability, might be the best approach.  There is no shame or weakness in telling the people around you that you are having an off day and you could use a little grace.  Isn’t that a much better approach than being short with people because you’re in a bad frame of mind?  When leaders are honest with people, it demonstrates that it’s acceptable to show vulnerability.  The actions will speak much louder than any words!

As you consider these points, imagine yourself as an impactful leader who people want to be around, work for, and model.  What are the traits you want in the person leading you?  Start to make note of those attributes and how you can create behaviors to support them.