Leadership is all the buzz these days in the business community. There are many thoughts on what makes a good leader and if you pick up a book or two, search the Internet, or watch videos and television you can learn all about the varying theories. Whether your business is insurance or fashion, investments or teaching, there is a high emphasis placed on the ability to "lead" others. With so much importance placed on leadership you might find yourself asking the question how?
 
You may be encouraged to know that leadership is a skill that can be developed. Significant amounts of money have been put into publishing books and creating seminars to teach others how to be effective leaders. It is a fallacy that people are born leaders. As is the case with any other ability it too can be taught, studied, learned and perfected. In spite of the onslaught of information available common themes exist as you will see reflected below.
 
Define and share the vision
People are motivated by ideas that capture their imagination. Help them see the purpose behind the vision and how it benefits them in the long-run.
 
Create a strategy, not a step-by-step plan
Be flexible. There is no step-by-step recipe to be followed and no end point that one arrives at. Leadership is a continually evolving process. As the process unfolds, adjustments will need to be made periodically. Keeping an open mind and a clear sense of direction will help you know when to make modifications and stay on track.
 
Communicate often and clearly
Be clear, be concise, be honest and be authentic. A leader must be able to communicate with various individuals on a wide array of issues. They must efficiently and effectively exchange information between two or more entities in a way that allows them to better understand each other so that they may individually and collectively make progress. Additionally they need to listen to the suggestions and feedback of those around them.
 
Be people-focused
As stated above, people are motivated by ideas that capture their imagination, not by fear or reward; at least not for very long. Extrinsic motivation is fleeting and high maintenance. The key is to tap into the individual. What brings that person alive? How can you align him or her with his or her talents, interests and other individuals who will be complementary? Foster an environment that strengthens the individual and you will benefit the whole. Demonstrate compassion and provide individualized consideration.
 
Lead by example
Our attitude, presence and behavior say more than our words ever will. Leaders are in highly visible positions and the type of example they set will affect how their team responds. A leader understands how their actions influence those who are watching. A leader who expects more from the team than himself or herself will ultimately lose the interest of those he's leading.  Everything previously identified will only take a leader so far before followers stop following. In the eyes of the followers, a leader must earn his place and command their respect.
 
Be a life-long student
Learn from past bloopers and blunders. Leaders keep their minds open to the lessons that are presented and are not intimidated by mistakes. Do not label mistakes as failures. Appreciate the knowledge that comes with the mistake and put steps in place to continue moving forward. Leaders who maintain an attitude of the life-long student will create an environment that empowers others. This will also lead to an environment that encourages excellence rather than perfection.
 
Recognize the need for support
A leader must be able to remove their ego from the equation and acknowledge where their own weaknesses lay. In doing so, they will need to surround themselves with individuals who possess supporting strengths in order to offset their own limitations. This will provide more balance and stabilization to the process.
 
Have a thorough understanding of the complexity of the organization
Leaders must have the ability to assess and analyze the dynamics of the "playing field" so that critical thinking can be applied. This means knowing where to look for solutions when troubleshooting problems, understanding the political layout of the environment and having an appreciation for how the actions of one department affect another.
 
In summary, leadership is all about people. A leader exists to guide people through a process to achieve an end result. A collaborative relationship must exist between the leader and the follower. The leader must raise the awareness of the follower and inspire him or her to perform for the "good of the organization" while trusting in personal gain. A leader has truly been successful when both parties win.