Our country was built on exceptionalism. People worked hard every day to achieve the American Dream. Chances were taken and advancements were made as a result of everyday citizens thinking outside of the box. There was a time when liability took a back seat to ingenuity. Patriotism ranked above protests. Workers wanted to be the best at their craft and were given the freedom to chase perfection. Sadly, those days are behind us for the most part.
There has been a leadership vacuum in recent years and those afforded the opportunity to empower others have focused on self-enrichment and self-preservation. They put the needs of themselves before those considered to be subordinates. This is not the picture of leadership that I envision, but it has become a reality. There are certainly exceptions to this trend, but we can do better as a country.
A great leader will put round pegs in round holes. That simply means that they will exploit the skills of their employees and allow them to focus on what they’re good at…and love to do. That brings about a better and more productive employee, while enhancing the overall standing of the company or agency. Human nature tells us that a satisfied and motivated worker is a bigger asset. Create a fair and equitable work environment and people will believe that opportunities will come their way, if they continue to work hard and strive for improvement. The opposite can be said when predetermined outcomes based on likability rather than productivity rule the day.
Never stifle drive and determination. Once gone, it rarely comes back. Leaders have the ability to motivate their people and express support when it is needed. They also have the opportunity to minimize their employee’s efforts and create an atmosphere of mediocrity. Why work hard when their is no incentive to? Why think outside the box and push the envelope when that pushing leads to a push back from superiors?
The greatest investment any company can make is in its workers. The best minds are not always found at the top of an organizational chart. Brilliance and leadership can be seen at all levels…if one cares to look beyond the edge of their own desk. How many CEO’s or community leaders started off in that position? I dare say none of them! They rose through the ranks because someone allowed them to be themselves, they worked harder than the next person, and they reached for perfection.
That progression is still possible if those as the top worry less about themselves and more about those they’re entrusted to lead. We can remember the road that was taken that led us to success, or we can slowly march towards mediocrity and lose what we fought so hard to achieve. Leadership is a verb, not a noun. Actions matter more than words…but both should be chosen wisely.