Kairology

This month I have selected three articles which have a theme around personal style in relation to others. If as leaders we want to get the best from people, we have to value them. That means ensuring they feel included, that their confidence and skills are being built, and that we lead others as we would like to be led ourselves. Leadership comes from position, knowledge and character, and we should be prepared as leaders to demonstrate all three. That includes being attractive and likeable – I know firsthand that people leave leaders, not organisations. Don’t be shy of wanting to be liked! Why else would people want to be around you?

Keep watching Kairology.com for a range of articles on these personal values and leadership styles.

This month I’ve selected 3 articles that will be of interest to any leader or manager facing change in what for many are difficult times. The connection here with my own passion for leadership runs across these articles, and is relevant for anyone facing challenges.

What is paramount is staying purpose-centred: it’s easy to be distracted from your key strategies when you go into survival mode. We all need to survive the tough times, but it’s important to stay focused on the overall purpose and plan – otherwise we come out the other side of the downturn and wonder what to do next!

Servant leadership is also important. When the pressure is on, teamwork and ‘mucking in’ is what’s called for. It’s a great opportunity to see who can and will do this and who won’t. That gives you clues for who is engaged in your organisation, who should be getting the rewards long term, and who you might look to promote when the business expands and opportunities arise.

Personal competency is really tested when times are hard. How are you and your people stepping up to the mark, proving their resilience and strength, and getting more from less. That’s the real test of leadership, and of leading change when change is forced rather than chosen.

My own article on leadership in the tough times is also featured this month. Enter into your challenge, whatever it is, with determination and gusto – don’t be defeated! The survivors of tough times make the best organisations for the future. It’s like sorting the wheat from the chaff.

Ian A. Williams