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Jump-Start
Your Leadership Skills
by James Malinchak
If it is true,
as John Maxwell said, that "leadership is influence,"
then to effectively lead others you must focus your attention
on exerting a positive influence upon those in your organization.
There is little doubt that all group members must work together
for your organization to achieve its common goals. One of the
most effective ways to influence others to work together toward
common goals is to develop mutually respectful relationships.
To become an effective leader capable of developing these kinds
of relationships, follow these simple suggestions, which correspond
with letters in the word LEADERS:
L:
Continue to LEARN
I'm sure you have heard the phrase, "Knowledge is power!"
How true it is. The more you learn, the stronger you grow. Also,
the more you grow, the more diverse your background becomes. The
more diverse your background becomes, the more interesting and
influential you will be to others. Open your mind to new ideas
and opinions by reading books, attending workshops, and meeting
new people. Make a consistent effort to continue your own personal
learning process.
E: Don't
Make EXCUSES
As a leader, it is important that you are willing to accept responsibility
and admit mistakes. It will be difficult to earn the loyalty of
those in your organization if you consistently place blame and
criticism on others. People are more willing to support and listen
to an individual who doesn't make excuses, but who instead takes
responsibility for a mistake. After all, everyone makes mistakes.
A:
Develop a Positive ATTITUDE
Would you prefer to be led by an individual with a positive or
negative attitude? If you want those in your organization to think
positively about programs and projects, then you must serve as
an example. Elevate your attitude to elevate your leadership effectiveness.
Many people in leadership positions don't reach their full potential
because they have not developed a strong positive mental attitude.
D: DELEGATE
Responsibility
Many individuals who accept leadership positions may unwittingly
abuse their power. Make sure that don't make this mistake by "over-bossing"
your organization. Delegate responsibility to others. This will
convey to them that you believe in their abilities, trust their
decisions, value their opinions, and have faith in their ideas.
In return, your members will show you more respect as their leader
and you will have a more effective team.
E:
Create ENTHUSIASM
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "Nothing great was ever achieved
without enthusiasm." Enthusiasm is crucial to your success
as a leader. It must begin with you before it can spread to others
on your team. Enthusiasm is contagious, so develop a passion for
the project on which you are working. Soon you will notice the
same passion spreading to your team members.
R: Give
RESPECT to Receive RESPECT
Earning the respect of your team members should be one of your
primary goals. In order to earn respect from them, you must demonstrate
a high level of respect for them. Accomplish this by communicating
openly and honestly, listening to your team members with understanding.
Discuss problems with them, encouraging suggestions and ideas,
and support them when they encounter difficult situations.
S:
SET Goals
The purpose of goals is to focus your attention. Your group will
not progress until you clearly define and set goals. Not setting
goals can be compared to trying to drive a car to a place you've
never visited without using a road map. How can you reach your
destination without proper direction? The same is true of anything
your group is striving to achieve. You need to set goals, your
road map.
Final Words
Demonstrating effective leadership is an art. Mastering any art
form takes time and practice. Follow these suggestions, develop
your own personal style, and believe in your ability to serve
as your organization's leader. Soon you will be displaying the
characteristics of a dynamic leader.
__________________________________________________________________________________
James Malinchak
is the author of the top-selling books, From College to the Real
World™, and a Contributing Editor to the New York Times Best-seller,
Chicken Soup for the College Soul®. He was selected 2000 College
Speaker of the Year by the Association for the Promotion of Campus
Activities, 1999 College Speaker of the Year by Campus Activities
magazine and has presented over 1,100 motivational talks. To check
speaking availability, contact: James Malinchak 1-888-793-1196,
email: [email removed],
website: www.Malinchak.com
© Copyright
James Malinchak. Published with permission.
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These
are some issues students may face during this time of year. As
you will note, these are general guidelines and will vary from
student to student. This information can be useful to not only
be aware of what students may be going through, but also to plan
relevant programs.