Why leadership? A business and leadership blog. I value leadership capabilities in myself, my peers and mentors as a critical and often underappreciated indicator for success. Whenever I have faced existential crisis, or coached it in others, feeling a bit washed over in the significance of our careers – I can point to people management as a truly proud vocation. Yes, a vocation, something more than a job, but a calling that offers intrinsic reward. Ever get down on yourself for what we produce, other than making other companies money? My antidote is the reminder that how we affect others is the most honest currency we can build. Leadership is sharing, leadership is expression, leadership is fostering meaningful connections, and leadership is building common purpose for your tribe.
Here’s a few places to start to ensure others know your motivations to lead from the start. My approach to leadership is simple & genuine:
1.) Share your own values first and often to foster meaningful connections with your team in pursuit of a shared purpose. Good values to start with are openness & authenticity. When you are true to yourself and others, you are respecting everyone’s time and getting down to business.
2.) Share your ‘Why’ by precisely articulating your vision, you fortify long-term success. People do not follow directions as much as the reason ‘why’. Maintained consistently, you build psychological safety and trust to tackle turbulent waters.
3.) Share Open Discourse, management is not hierarchical, it is open, dynamic and facilitatory. The more diverse perspectives you can nurture, the more you invite and accept challenges – the more your team will pursue what is meaningful, not what is expedient.
Whether you’re introducing yourself to a new team, new bosses, new peers, or just clearing the air amidst dipping morale – this will save everyone time, create clarity, and a common ground that will foster growth.
Paul Carreo 