We were sitting in a conference room overlooking the Indianapolis skyline. Our meeting was originally about his new role, but it evolved into a different conversation. This man I was sitting across from had served as an executive level leader in the copy and print industry at two companies.
I had to capitalize on the opportunity to learn from him so I asked him what his top three leadership principles are . . . and he gave me four. Over his years in various roles with Xerox and later Sharp Business Systems Ross developed and lived by these ideas.
Integrity
Yes, any good leader would say this, but his definition was very powerful:
“ An uncompromising value system to do what is right”
He takes this a bit further by emphasizing the importance of having people who will hold you accountable. This is the inner circle that John Maxwell refers to in his book The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership. These individuals Raifsnider speak truth with each other’s permission.
Culture
I’ve heard it said that culture eats leadership for lunch. At the same time leaders have a responsibility to be aware of and influence the culture of the organization. Ross described a healthy culture as one where people are first. This environment creates a sustainable and predictable organization versus a toxic, unproductive and stagnant organization.
Ross suggested that a continuous learning environment also creates a healthy culture. This will require investing in your people both by formal educational opportunities and on the job challenges to stretch them. Raifsnider found that when you attract the right people, invest in people, and people understand and embrace and understand their role in the mission and vision, a healthy culture evolves.
Communication
Leaders know this is critical to leadership at any level, but Ross broke it down to three “C’s”.
Clarity – make sure what you say makes sense. I would add use the KISS principle and keep it simple to keep it clear.
Context – the leader helps provide clarity when he or she explains the purpose behind what is being communicated. This improves understanding and increases buy-in.
Consistent – We have a lot pulling at us professionally and personally. We would love to say something once and be done, but unfortunately that is not always the case so we must communicate the message consistently.
When leaders combine these three “C’s” they equal trust from those who follow them.
Results Matter
We can be the best leader in the world, but we won’t stay the leader if we fail to get results. What do results look like? For the non-profit sector these are the areas that are relevant to the key stakeholders. When that is determined metrics can be placed behind it for accountability. For-profit organizations must determine what results are relevant in a return for their measurables. Ultimately accountability for results Raifsnider suggests must honor people for the greater good of the organization. Keep the people first to maintain a healthy culture and ultimately drive the desired results.
What about you? When you look at these principles which do you need to focus on over the next week, month, quarter, or year? How would your team or organization look different? Need help getting your organization thinking like leaders? Contact me to schedule a 15 minute discovery call to learn about a 45 minute leadership training for your organization or team at no cost to you. In the meantime, lead well!
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