“True Leaders don’t need a title to make things happen. If you establish in your coworkers’ minds that you can be trusted and help them with their projects, your value will escalate in your organization. Too many people only focus on what they can take over and control. If you focus on service with your boss, peers, and your direct reports, you will be an acclaimed leader, if not assigned one.”- The Corporate Survival Manual
When leaders shift from a ‘command and control’ first position to one of service, the rewards are significant, organizationally, and personally. When leaders are in ‘service’ mode, their ability to affect team growth and efficiency increases substantially. They will move seamlessly from directing work, teaching, and coaching to encouraging. They then top it all off with a healthy dose of listening. The results can be dramatic. As a result of their ‘service’ mindset, their employees grow personally, helping the organization grow in efficiency and productivity. A true leader understands that they grow ONLY as the team grows.
Here are several communication tips that can help a leader deliver ‘service’ to their team members:
- Meet with individual team members regularly to direct their work AND listen.
- Frequently ask team members, “What do you need from me that will help you accomplish your objectives?”
- Take special note of where team members can benefit from additional training, coaching, and targeted development
- Maintain an open-door policy to reinforce your commitment to removing performance obstacles and team achievement
- When you see something, say something! Whenever a team member executes an assignment satisfactorily, let them know that you appreciate their work.
When your team knows that you are there for them, they will most assuredly be there for you!
If Serving is Beneath You, Leadership is Beyond You
Eric Kelly is a professional career and lifestyle coach with over thirty years of experience in corporate America. He has established leadership development systems in the US, Europe, South America, Africa, and the Middle East.