Leadership Is Not Motivation by Intimidation

I have been around CEO’s who believe, leadership is all about power. In fact, in speaking to people in D.C. they have something they call “Potomac Fever”. What is it?…Power.

Taken to the extreme, I have seen leaders and CEO’s use their power as a club. Leadership is not about getting what you want using fear. Leadership is not “Motivation by Intimidation.”

It is about encouraging and coaching others towards the goal of the organization and themselves. It is about getting everyone on the same page and helping him or her see the big picture of the organization. You must be a leader not a boss.

People follow others when they see a clear sense of purpose. People will only follow you if they see that you know where you are going.

If you do not know where you're headed, why would people follow you? Imagine having a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle. Imagine the box does not have a picture of what the completed puzzle looks like. Leaders must have a vision of what the future looks like and communicate it.

Being a leader is not about what you make others do. It's about who you are, what you know, and what you do. You are a reflection of what you're subordinates must be.

Studies have shown that one trait of good leadership is the trust and confidence your subordinates have in you. Trust and confidence is built on good relationships, trustworthiness, and high ethics.

Once you have their trust and confidence, you may now continue to communicate the goals and objectives you are to undertake.

Communication is a very important key to good leadership. The knowledge and technical expertise you have must be clearly communicated to other people. You must be able to assess situations, weigh the pros and cons of any decision, and actively seek out an answer.

Leaders are not do-it-all heroes. You should not claim to know everything, and you should not rely upon your skills alone. You should recognize the skills and talents your subordinates have. Only when you come to this realization will you be able to work as one cohesive unit.

The bottom line is this…"Leadership is Not Motivation by Intimidation...It is Through Inspiration.”

Change your Mindset and Change your Results,

Rich