October 2008
Art of Networking |
The Leader Within
6 traits of an effective leader.
Leadership usually comes to people because they are either thrust into it or they are willing to step forward and take on a leadership role. When one thinks of leadership, there is usually an understanding that responsibility and accountability to others comes along with the title and position.
The best leaders are not those who become leaders for the sake of power. The best are leaders who serve others with their ability to make decisions and then stand behind them. The best leaders are those who walk with integrity to better the lives of the people they lead.
Leadership begins with concern, vision, and mentorship. The co-authors in the new book, The Power of Leadership: Finding the Leader Within, share their vision with you and offer mentorship to help you find your leader within. Here's a snapshot:
Six Traits of a Leader
* Good Listening Skills. This is required to understand attitudes of others and motivators. By asking many open-ended questions, you can get to know those whom you are leading. When you ask questions, you have a chance to listen; and when you listen, you begin to better understand people's motivations, body language, and issues. Offer challenges and solutions, and provide credit to those who provide solid, honest replies to your inquiries.
* Enthusiasm. You must, as a leader, always present a positive and energetic attitude.
* Awareness. Be aware of non-verbal communication. Leaders must have a keen awareness of when followers are happy, frustrated, tired, or stressed.
* Decisiveness. Be quick and decisive with your replies. No one likes a procrastinator. Good leaders do not waiver in their decision-making; they make quick decisions to problems and find quick solutions that work.
* Rewarding. Because people desire more than monetary reward in their work, give them recognition and pats on the back for jobs done well. This sense of pride and self-worth is very important to most people.
* Positive Communication. Leaders must always create positive communication and feedback. This creates loyalty and a mutual exchange of ideas. When ideas are fresh, profits and productivity usually soar.
You've probably seen normal people do extraordinary things. Like the kid who finally stands up to the bully or the average guy who gets up the nerve to follow his dreams and go into business for himself and go to a networking meeting for the first time.
You've also seen extraordinary people do what seems like near supernatural feats. Like Martha Stewart going from down-trodden teenager to national superstar status to jailbird to the comeback kid. Even Donald Trump went from middle class to ultra rich, to completely broke and back to very rich again.
As a young man, Abraham Lincoln was a dismal failure in business. He gave up his law practice and was forced into bankruptcy. As you well know, Mr. Lincoln later went on to become President of the United States—and one of the most beloved ones!
Do you wonder how they did it? They found the leader within themselves and the courage to act on it. Not just think about it, but also take action! That is the most crucial point in accomplishing goals. You must take action—now. Not tomorrow, next week or later when you feel the timing is right.
Do it now.
You are one step closer to greatness because you are taking action today by reading this article. To learn more on finding your leader within visit: www.PowerOfLeadershipBooks.com.
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Contact Debbra Sweet by visiting www.SweetMarketingSolutions.com and www.DebbraSweet.com.
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