Turn Around & Lead

It's been said, "No one leads the orchestra without turning his back on the crowd."

Leading is many times standing alone. And standing alone is a whole lot riskier than following along in the midst of a crowd. It's easy to see why so few of us make the grade. It's lonely and scary out there on a limb, all by ourselves. You know the wisecrack: "Yeah, but that's why you get the big bucks!"

Sure. The big bucks -- even the consistent paycheck -- makes the buffeting that can come from staking out a tough position a little less traumatic. But we're talking bravery here. You'll know the degree to which you are authentically a leader at your very core, regardless of your leadership style, by:

• how comfortable you are with the inherent conflict that comes with taking a stand.
• how willing you are to speak against an idea when everyone else on the team is for it.
• how confident you are with yourself, i.e. the strength of your self concept

Think about Obama and McCain. Any political figure really...mayor, governor, school board member. We may not agree with their stand many times, but you have to give them one thing. They are willing to take the heat for taking that stand. They're OK with being out front, in the spotlight, an easy target for the critics.

And there are always critics. You could be the most competent and beloved leader in your business unit or organization and trust me, some people will still find fault. Not everyone's going to like you. Or agree with you. Ever. So you may as well be true to yourself, to what you believe is right. Step up, state it, and accept the consequences. If it turns out you're wrong, admit it, and move on. (And like most politicians, run again!)

What's it take to be brave like that?

• Be OK with being wrong. Successful managers often get promoted because they have the guts to stand alone, not because they are always right. (Studies show they're only right about 65% of the time.)
• Know what it is you really want when difficult situations arise. I mean long term. Not this instant. Then keep that long-term goal in front of you as you work through the situation. Do this and you'll be amazed at the positive impact it has on your emotions, especially fear.
• The more passionate you are about something, the easier it is to bravely take a stand, to be a champion for an idea. Pick your battles wisely.

Remember, life is not a popularity contest. Neither is being a leader. So turn around, face the orchestra and lead.

Comments

[Pete]

Shirley - great points. People think leadership is a difficult concept to grasp. It is truly as easy as being yourself and knowing your limitations...of course there is more to it than just those two aspects, but those are a great starting point.

[Becci Hall]

Great post Shirley! We have all seen bad leaders, and we have seen great ones. And, the great ones make it look easy!

I will say the greatest growth I have experienced as a leader is when I recently started my own business. The experience has been terrific. In making decisions and finding solutions for my company, there are times when I almost don't recognize myself...and, I'm proud of me! I agree that risk is they key ... confident in oneself that with risk will be reward (however one defines reward).

Thanks for the thoughts!

[Shirley Poertner]

Becci--there's nothing like starting your own business to bring everything you've ever heard and read about management and leadership to the forefront. You have to be it all...and then decide what to quickly turn over to others, even if on a fee basis, or a contract basis. Talk about risk taking and standing alone! But there's nothing more rewarding, that's for sure. Shirley