The walk needs to reflect the talk

Being an effective leader takes much more than a fancy title and the corner office. There used to be a time when leadership was about giving directions and waiting for the employee to execute the task – thankfully times have changed. 

Quite simply, leading by example is about demonstrating the desired actions and behaviours, to influence others to be proactive and positive in the workplace. Team members are strongly motivated by the actions of the leadership group and whilst there is no doubt that our words matter - our actions are what really count. 

What example should leaders be setting? 

A modern workplace expects leaders to engage and inspire workers to get the job done. Leading by example should not be done with the desire to create a team full of ‘mini mes’. Every worker is different and diversity of thought and experience should be embraced. This concept also suggests that the leader is superior in every way. 

The truth is the leader is not always the most skilled person in the team. They are usually appointed for their ability to see the big picture, and to inspire and connect employees to the strategic goals of the business. 

While this makes a lot of sense, none of this matters if the actual behaviours and actions of the leader are not worthy of being followed. So what role modelling makes a difference?

Demonstrating strong work ethics

It is difficult to expect your team members to turn up on time if you are always late. Don’t be a clock watcher and make the hours count.

Being accountable and owning your mistakes

If you make a mistake, show some vulnerability and own it. This encourages team members to do the same and feel safe.

Keeping sight of the goal

It is tempting to get lost in the weeds of a task. Stay focused on the ‘why’ and ensure that each action contributes to the end goal.

Acting like a business owner

Always ask yourself: “If this was my business, what decision would I make?”. No business has endless funds and it is imperative that leaders respect spending if they expect workers to.

Looking for the silver lining

There is good in every situation, you just need to be prepared to look hard enough to find it. 

Avoiding the victim mentality

The fastest way for negativity to spread like cancer is when the leader adopts a victim mentality. Sure, things don’t always go to plan but when the leader can dust themselves off and keep going, it inspires team members to do the same. 

Tips for being an effective role model 

The following are some key actions for successful role modelling:

• Seek feedback – it is critical that leaders have the courage to ask for feedback. Simply asking, “What part of my leadership style do you value and what can I improve on?” can provide valuable insights into what others are seeing. 
• Practice self-reflection and embrace self-awareness – after significant interactions and meetings, role model leaders take the time to reflect on what went well as well as the opportunities for improvement. Ask yourself questions like:
  • Did I set a positive tone or focus on the negatives?
  • Was I inclusive in my language?
  • Did I demonstrate that I was open to the ideas of others?
  • Was I engaged in the discussion?
  • What did my body language say?
  • Did I take feedback personally or embrace it as a way of moving forward?
• Demonstrate empathy – effective leadership requires the ability to demonstrate empathy, every day and in every interaction. It is easy to be judgemental or not consider the impact of a work request. Consider:
  • What else does my team member have going on?
  • Why might this work request be difficult?
  • What background might create an uncomfortable situation?
  • Why might work be challenging at the moment for this employee?
• Be positive – of course leaders have bad days too but it is important they can demonstrate calm, strength and a positive perspective. Positivity is contagious and when teams are able to look for the good over the bad, they will be innovative and overcome adversity. 
• Demonstrate honesty and integrity – no one will follow a leader who is untrustworthy. Employees respect leaders who are transparent and upfront. They want the leader to take responsibility for mistakes and to give credit where it is due. 
• Make team members a priority – offer support and encouragement and show team members that they matter. This comes from building authentic relationships and knowing what is important to each person. Show them that you have their back and believe in their ability, then watch the magic happen. 
• Lead with courage and conviction – leadership is not about being liked but it is certainly about being respected. Employees want a relatable leader, but they also expect them to pull up employees who are not pulling their weight. 

What is your leadership brand?

Whether they want one or not, every leader has a brand. Some leaders are known for ‘getting their hands dirty’ and rallying the troops whereas others are known for their negativity and lack of emotional intelligence (EQ). Unfortunately, there are no short cuts to effective leadership. 

The best leaders are known for passing the credit and taking the blame while doing everything possible to influence the team to be positive and productive. If leaders do not want mediocrity from their team they must not be mediocre themselves. It is time for leaders to look in the mirror for excellence and hold themselves accountable to the high standards they expect from others. Effective leadership has no room for hypocrisy, but plenty of space for humility, positivity and courage. 

Further information

For assistance with your workplace matters, Members of Ai Group can contact us or call our Workplace Advice Line on 1300 55 66 77 for further information.

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