According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, leadership is the office or position of a leader; capacity to lead; the act or an instance of leading.
So, what is the definition of ‘lead’? To lead is to guide on a way especially by going in advance; to guide someone or something along a way; it also says, to go at the head of or be first in or among.
Leaders have the capacity to guide others on a course while traveling ahead or among them.
It doesn’t mean to point and say, “Go do that.” It doesn’t mean, “Figure it out and let me know what happens.”
A GOOD leader inspires and models the behavior and performance they want from their team in an effort to set them up for success. A GOOD leader gets to know the individuals they are leading, uses their strengths, and helps them to develop in areas where they are weak. A GOOD leader will engage with their people, teach them, coach them, mentor them, then let them fly under their careful observation and provide constructive feedback. A GOOD leader has no problem coming into the trenches and making sacrifices when necessary.
A GOOD leader is not threatened by the growth and development of their team, actually they are the biggest cheerleader and supporter. They encourage their people to thrive and celebrate with them when they shine. As a matter of fact, they will be the first to shine the spotlight on a success and not feel the need to take credit.
A GOOD leader leads by example and brings a calm, cohesive inclusiveness to the environment. They are respectful. They don’t engage in water cooler activity or behave in ways that encourage exclusion and divisiveness. They REMOVE obstacles. They mediate conflict. They are humble, trustworthy, reliable, fair, discreet, and they care about the HUMANS who are in their charge.
Breathe. I know it's a lot and it's not for everyone. I’m not saying coddle, I’m not saying do their job for them. I’m saying that a successful leader is identified by the successes of the people that they lead. If everyone who has been inspired, mentored, and nurtured by you is professionally healthy and thriving, you’re doing something right. So what does GOOD leadership look like? Well hopefully, it looks like you.