Sometime, when people are urged to take a positive approach to leadership, there is some push-back. Some people seem to equate “positivity” with being super-nice, but being kind is much deeper than a spewing of empty compliments like “good job” or “nice work” or “super!”
An approach that upholds high standards and is very specific about behavior is positive, but not soft. Be rigorous, not ruthless.
Much of what I write and teach about servant leadership comes, frankly, from a moral, “do good”, outlook. This may sound cheesy, but I’m a cheesy guy; servant leadership from all leaders and teachers and coaches and managers and parents, everywhere, would make the world a much better place for everyone. But there is a utilitarian way of looking at this also. Keeping people engaged insures a much greater likelihood that the goals of the organization will be attained.
What would it be like if the managers modeled the behavior that ought to be expected?
Ever seen a train? Ever seen the cars pass the engine? Never. If you’re a leader, and you do things at level 10, your followers will likely do them at an “8”. If you have a rough day, and your effort is a “7”, expect your followers to be at a “5”.
To paraphrase Kouzes and Posner:
Leaders model the way by setting the example for others in ways that are consistent with their values. This promotes consistent progress and building of commitment.
But what if teachers in general (and band/choir/orchestra directors specifically) studied best practices in business – both management from an organizational standpoint, and from a team-building/customer service/human relations standpoint?
And what if business leaders approached their businesses, and especially their people, as though they were volunteers (like band students) who could – and would – walk away from things if they didn’t think their time and energy were well-spent?
Alan’s recommended books – Leadership Is an Art. Thanks for the reminder, Dane.
Cut people some slack. Really, you never know what kind of a day they’re having, how bad their insomnia is, whether they’ve suffered a major loss, or whatever other darkness they carry.
Because grace is something everyone needs to learn, and leaders sometimes act out of fear – “I’ll look weak!” we think. Pick some moments to cut people some slack.
At least, you’ll inspire loyalty because you’ve shown compassion, and at best, you’ll teach grace. And that can change the world.
I love this quote from Batman Begins: “Bruce, deep down you may still be that same great kid you used to be. But it’s not who you are underneath… it’s what you do that defines you.” As a leader, parent, and trainer, I confess that I cringe when I hear someone try to pump people … Read more
My first boss was fond of saying this: “Most days, we have fun around here.” The first time I heard him say this was in my job interview. He followed it up with “…and you can’t say that about most jobs.” It was my first job, so I took his word for it. He was … Read more