Leading & Relating

Effective leaders grow their relational skills in the following manner:
1. Have a Leader's Head - Understand people
2. Have a Leader's Heart - Love people
3. Have a Leader's Hand - Help people

I have said many times that if you want to know the effectiveness of a leader, then ask those who are led. This is because there is no perfect assessment, no bright-line test for what makes a leader effective, and no model that can perfectly determine great leadership.

So how then can we relate more effectively as leaders? Here are seven simple steps for improving your ability to do so:
1. Express genuine care and concern.
2. Establish high standards.
3. Bring in the perspective of others.
4. Share relevant information.
5. Role model the behaviors you want to see.
6. Clarify your understanding.
7. Provide your reactions and candid opinions.

I should hint that while these ideas may be simple, that does not mean any of them are easy to do. The right behaviors are frequently filled with common sense, yet that does not mean they are common practice. Consistent effort and attention to relating will improve your skill.