Monday Moanin Thoughts #97 Leadership 101, Be More Effective

Welcome to another February 2014 Monday Moanin. Leadership can be a very complex endeavor, probably because it involves other people. People in your organization bring all of their life highlights, struggles, and challenges into the workplace. As leaders, we are often invited to meet these challenges with elaborate answers, actions, and support. After  reflecting on past experiences, I want to offer and remind all leaders that your responses do not have to be complex or difficult. Consider leading by doing a few things that will make a positive difference in your organization. There are many responses  you can have as a leader that can be simple and yet powerful.

Make eye contact with all you come in contact with.

Smile often-find the joy.

Be visible-leadership is physical. Quit driving your desk and get in hallways and visit classrooms.

And when you see something good, give some positive , specific feedback. Reinforce the good you observe by letting people know you appreciate their efforts.

Be present in all conversations-no distractions.

Listen, listen, listen.

On the surface none of the above list are brilliant and yet they often get overlooked because leaders may be trying to do too much. Give these strategies some attention this week and see if your effectiveness improves..

Let me close with a quote from Stephen Covey. “A Circle of Influence encompasses those concerns that we can do something about. They are concerns that we have some control over.”

The above actions certainly fit in the Circle of Influence. Lets all get to work and keep finding the good stuff.