Leadership is not something you do “To” people. Leadership is something that you do “With” people.
The three Foundational skills of excellent leaders are:
1. Goal Setting – Getting alignment on what needs to be done, and when.
When the leader involves team members in setting goals most often those goals are reached. It is important for the goals to be specific and trackable – relevant, attainable and motivating. Paint a clear picture of how individual work contributes to the big picture.
2. Diagnosing – Having a conversation with an individual to understand what their competence and commitment are on a specific goal or task.
Leaders must continually diagnose what direction and support on a specific goal or task. They must learn to manage the fine line between giving directions when needed and micromanaging.
3. Matching – Learning how to use a variety of leadership styles to provide individuals with what they need when they need it.
Matching helps individuals “play to their strengths.” A great leader knows the strengths of each member of their team and assigns jabs or tasks based on strengths. Not only is it counterproductive for people to be responsible for projects for which they have no strengths, it destroys morale.
Situational Leaders use the right leadership style at the right time with the right people.
I have a terrific presentation, interactive of course, on Situational Leadership. I’m booking for the fall now. Contact me to schedule a time with your team or organization.
