Some time back, I had the opportunity and privilege to hear from an accomplished and inspiring leader who I genuinely look up to as a mentor from a distance.
Here are some thoughts on…..
How to Be a Star Team Player and Lead without a Title
Before anyone begins the journey to leadership – whether you have a title or not – remember, that change always starts with you.
Here are some key elements to help you check within yourself:
- In your current environment, how are you adding value?
- Are you helping to create and maintain a positive culture?
- Are you being courageous to suggest improvements in a constructive manner?
- Are you being consistent? That is, does your walk match your talk?
- In what areas do you need to grow?
To be a part of a winning team and in order to get there, each team member should carry these 3 Core Beliefs:
- I feel valued in this team.
- I feel inspired.
- I feel empowered.
To become a leader regardless of position and title you have, consider the following principles to work toward on how to be inspirational and lead by example in your team:
Have a heart to care! Be mindful and compassionate about others… develop a heart for people!
- Live by the motto: “I notice you… and you matter.”
- Appreciate and show gratitude over and above the norm… Then double it!
- Shift your focus where you can, from being ‘me-centred’ to ‘you-centred’
Have a Passion to Inspire!
- Carry an optimistic outlook! Be the positive one and keep the spirits up!
- Be generous with your words! Offer words of encouragement and recognition to those around you.
- Be empathetic – be a good listener!
- Inspire your team to keep their eye on the prize! Be the constant reminder of the bigger picture: “What you’re a part of is bigger than the part you play.”
Have a Willingness to empower!
- Be the constant learner… and the one that promotes knowledge-sharing. We unleash potential by empowering those around not by controlling and holding on to what we know
- Remember those that just delegate tasks will create good followers… However, those that delegate authority, create empowered leaders.
- To delegate is to trust your team to do the best at their level
Have the courage to be vulnerable: Humility – confidence – honesty – integrity
- It doesn’t hurt to say sorry when you get it wrong… Just remember to fail fast and fail forward.
- Be the coach that says, “We’re going to press on regardless”
- Aim to Just Be You, your authentic self.
- Don’t be someone else – be you.
- Be real.
In closing… remember this very important point: “The goal of any good leader should not be to require action from others but to inspire action.”
Reference: Craig Groeschel