At its core, leadership means setting goals, lighting a path, and influencing others to follow. But the responsibility entails much more. Leaders must get their message out in a way that inspires, make the most of their limited time, and build roads to precious resources. They must negotiate alliances, improve their colleagues, and align the ambitions of many with the needs of the organization. What makes for a great leader? Is it something to do with inward characteristics, such as confidence and focus? Is it more about outward presence, including charm and compassion? Or is it about the ability to create a vision and get others to commit to it? The answer is all of the above. By accepting the challenge to lead, you come to realize that the only limits are those you place on yourself.
According the industries top leadership consultant and author of the #1 Best Seller "Good to Great", Jim Collins describes the desired level of leadership as a level four or five. Level five leaders are those who "channel their ego need away from themselves and into the larger goal of building a great company". He further describes level four leaders as "effective" those who "catalyze commitment to and vigorous pursuit of a clear and compelling vision, stimulating higher performance standards". Leadership guru John C. Maxwell in his #1 Best Seller: "Developing the Leader in You" categorizes the desired level of leadership as level four or five. Level four leaders are those who influence people to follow them because of what they have done for them. Level four leaders develop the people that are around them and as pointed out by Jim Collins it's never about you, it's always about developing those around you. Very few people reach the level five status of leadership as described by John C. Maxwell, because at this level people follow you because of who you are and what you represent.
You many find that you or someone you know are not close to either level as described by the industries leading leadership consultants, but you know there needs to be a starting point. As with any goal there is a foundation that has to be built in order to support the objective. Ask yourself this question: Do you or someone you know have the leadership competencies needed to move forward as an effective leader? If you can't answer affirmatively, then begin building your foundation. Don't wait start today.
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Linda Branch
CSMC, LLC
