Man in a suit with text of Follow Me!

Leadership reflections

What makes an excellent #leader or manager?

This is something I’m reflecting on today as a leader/mentor for me recently retired/moved. He was an incredible leader, but why? What made him so different from the several before him?

He checked in often. He would actually seek people out. Not to critique, not to give you tasks, just to see how things were going. Wow, what a way to feel seen. #relationshipsmatter

He LISTENED. He didn’t listen to give his opinion (though would if pertinent). He didn’t listen to correct or critique what you said. He listened to understand your viewpoint. #listeningskills

He allowed himself to be open to new ideas. I’ve worked with several CEOs and school leaders. The best ones have a vision for sure, have that strength to lead, but allow that openness to change, to new ideas, to the realization that everyone has value and really wonderful ideas, not just themselves. The power of a group is ALWAYS more than the power of one. #teamwork